Fiji’s Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration Pio Tikoduadua has called for the establishment of an Oceanic Alliance for the Security of Island States (OASIS) to address the growing security challenges faced by Pacific Island nations.
Speaking at the opening of the Maritime Security Conference in Suva today, Tikoduadua highlighted the importance of maritime security to the region’s economic stability, food security, and overall sovereignty. He said that the safety and security of maritime domains are crucial to the well-being of all Pacific peoples, as their livelihoods are closely tied to the ocean.
He pointed out the increasing pressures on the Pacific’s vast ocean spaces, which are now attracting greater attention due to geopolitical rivalries and strategic power competition.
“Strategic power competition, not only for marine resources but also for leadership in the Blue Pacific, Asia-Pacific, or Indo-Pacific—depending on perspective—has drawn the attention of powerful nations to our vast ocean,” he said.
In response to these challenges, Tikoduadua proposed the formation of OASIS as a formal platform for Pacific Island States to unite and address various security issues, including transnational organised crime, climate change, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
“OASIS would ensure that our voices are not drowned out by the geopolitical competition around us,” he said.
Tikoduadua underscored the need for collective action, noting that the Pacific Island States are often overshadowed globally. He urged unity among the nations of the region, asserting that only through collaboration can they secure their shared future.
“In a world where Pacific Island States are often overshadowed, we must stand together,” he said.
The two-day maritime security workshop, which concludes tomorrow, aims to encourage collaboration among various agencies and explore strategies to protect the region’s maritime areas for the benefit of current and future generations.
Tikoduadua voiced his hopes that the discussions would lead to concrete actions beyond the conference, contributing to the long-term security and prosperity of the Pacific.
