Despite these strides, Guterres stressed that major industrialized nations, particularly the G20, must lead in reducing fossil fuel production and consumption. “Big emitters must step up and lead,” he asserted, calling for immediate action to phase out fossil fuels and curb emissions.
In a powerful address at the opening of the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga on Sunday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres lauded the Pacific island nations for their leadership in combating climate change, urging the global community to bolster support for their efforts.
Guterres praised the Pacific region as a “beacon of solidarity and strength,” highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship and peace amid a world rife with conflict and socio-economic challenges. His remarks came as the Forum, which includes 18 member states from Australia to Vanuatu, convened to discuss a collective vision for a sustainable future, guided by a long-term strategy aiming for comprehensive well-being by 2050.
The UN chief acknowledged the growing urgency of climate issues, noting that the global 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is faltering. “The world has much to learn from you,” Guterres said, emphasizing the need for enhanced international support. He pointed out that the Pacific’s extensive knowledge of the ocean and proactive measures contrast sharply with global mismanagement of marine resources, describing the ocean as being treated “like a sewer” due to plastic pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and rising sea levels.
Guterres highlighted the Pacific islands’ efforts, including their Declarations on Sea Level Rise and their push for a transition to a fossil-fuel-free future. He commended Pacific youth for taking the climate crisis to the International Court of Justice, reflecting the region’s proactive stance on environmental issues.
Despite these strides, Guterres stressed that major industrialized nations, particularly the G20, must lead in reducing fossil fuel production and consumption. “Big emitters must step up and lead,” he asserted, calling for immediate action to phase out fossil fuels and curb emissions. The G20 nations, which contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, are expected to set an example for the rest of the world.
Leadership crucial
The UN Secretary-General’s address underscores the pivotal role that Pacific island nations are playing in global climate leadership and highlights the pressing need for a unified international response to safeguard the planet’s future.
The UN Secretary-General also underscored the urgent need for increased financial support, technology, and capacity-building to accelerate the transition to clean energy and enhance resilience in Pacific island states. He called for reforms in international financial systems, including expanded lending from Multilateral Development Banks and improved debt relief programs, to support developing nations.
Guterres emphasized the importance of the upcoming Summit of the Future in New York, where global leaders will have the opportunity to reform international institutions to better address contemporary challenges. “If we save the Pacific, we save the world,” he declared, urging Pacific island nations to assert their leadership on the global stage.
He further acknowledged the Pacific’s success in securing support for the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index at the General Assembly and emphasized the need for its inclusion in international financial institutions’ operational criteria.
In his closing remarks, Guterres called on Pacific island states to continue voicing their concerns and solutions loudly and clearly, stressing that their leadership is crucial for addressing the climate crisis and ensuring a sustainable future for all.
Image: UN
