OASIS to address regional challenges: Tikoduadua – FBC News

Interior Minister Pio Tikoduadua proposes the creation of an Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States.

According to Tikoduadua, OASIS will be a formal platform for the Pacific Island States to jointly address the security challenges we currently face.

He adds that these challenges range from combating transnational organised crime to tackling climate change and preventing illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

Opening the Maritime Safety Committee conference this morning, Tikoduadua stressed that OASIS will ensure that the voices of the Pacific are not drowned out by geopolitical competition.

“In a world where Pacific Island nations are often overshadowed, we must stand together. Only together, and with our partners, can we make our voices heard and secure our shared future. OASIS would serve as a beacon of this unity – a proactive step towards protecting our maritime areas from growing external pressures.”

Tikoduadua says the two-day workshop themed “Safeguarding the Blue Pacific” aims to bring together relevant agencies and explore options to conserve and protect our maritime domains.