The Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Waqa, emphasized the need for stronger legal capacity in the Pacific region as countries engage more deeply in international treaty processes. Opening the Workshop on Treaty Law and Practice in the Pacific at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Waqa welcomed regional officials, legal experts, and partners to enhance treaty-making capacity. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Fiji and partners for their support in organizing the workshop, which aims to strengthen legal capacity in the Blue Pacific region.
Waqa highlighted the significance of international treaty law in shaping global issues and the Pacific’s contributions to international treaty frameworks, such as the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty and the Pacific Resilience Facility Treaty. He stressed the importance of improving knowledge of treaty law for Pacific nations to engage effectively and ensure proper domestication of binding agreements. This initiative aligns with the region’s long-term development vision under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
Amidst a complex global environment characterized by geopolitical tensions and technological advancements, Waqa emphasized the necessity of unity and adherence to international law. He underscored the importance of coordinated regional leadership based on shared priorities and the 2050 Strategy to address challenges collectively. The workshop provides a timely opportunity for practical capacity building, including discussions on key treaties like the Pacific Resilience Facility Treaty and the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction.
Participants will explore various aspects of treaty practice during the workshop to enhance their ability to negotiate, implement, and uphold international obligations. Waqa encouraged active engagement from participants, highlighting the value of their national and regional experiences in advancing the rule of law in the Pacific region and globally. This workshop aims to empower representatives from Forum Members to have a more significant influence on the global stage by strengthening national systems and collective regional influence.
