Small island state regional cooperation

Small island states and regional organizations are increasingly seeking coordinated approaches to address shared economic and environmental vulnerabilities.

In late August, Cuba announced its participation as a dialogue partner in the 55th Pacific Islands Forum leaders' meeting in Palau. Represented by Ambassador Néstor Torres, Cuba intended to share experiences regarding the challenges faced by small island states, focusing on economic cooperation, development financing, and climate action.

By late September, cooperation between island regions expanded through a formal partnership between the Pacific Islands Forum and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). A Memorandum of Understanding signed at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly established a framework for enhanced advocacy and knowledge sharing. Signed by PIF Secretary-General Baron Divavesi Waqa and CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett, the agreement specifically targets the priorities of Small Island and Low-Lying Coastal Developing States (SIDS), aiming to strengthen their collective voice in global decision-making processes regarding climate change and economic pressures.

During the same UN General Assembly session, Pacific Islands Forum leaders met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to reaffirm their regional mandate. The leaders emphasized connecting Pacific-led priorities with international action, specifically regarding climate change, development finance, and the Pacific Resilience Facility. Discussions also addressed peace and security within the ‘Blue Pacific’ region, including sea-level rise, nuclear issues, and transnational crime, while calling for reforms to ensure global institutions remain responsive to Pacific communities.