Cuba to join Pacific Islands Forum leaders' meeting in Palau

Cuba will participate as a dialogue partner in the 55th Pacific Islands Forum leaders' meeting, scheduled to take place in Palau from August 30 to September 4. Represented by Néstor Torres, the Cuban ambassador to Fiji and concurrent to the Pacific Islands, Cuba aims to share its experiences regarding the shared challenges faced by small island states.

The forum's central theme, “B. E. L. A. U. - Building Economies: Life. Action. Unity,” will focus on coordinated regional approaches to development financing, investment mobilization, and economic cooperation. Discussions are also expected to emphasize collective defense of Pacific priorities, including climate action, sustainable development, and economic resilience.

Cuba has held dialogue partner status with the forum, which includes 14 small island states, since 2013. The participation highlights long-standing diplomatic ties and cooperation in sectors such as healthcare.