NICE, France, – Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to climate action, sustainable ocean governance, and Pacific regional cooperation during the 6th France–Oceania Summit, held in Nice, France on Tuesday – 10 June.

The summit, convened by French President Emmanuel Macron on the margins of the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC), brought together Pacific Island leaders to strengthen collaboration on shared challenges facing the region.

In his address, Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the longstanding maritime and cultural connections between Solomon Islands and France, particularly through France’s territorial presence in New Caledonia.

He described the summit as not only a political gathering but also a meeting of neighbours.

The Prime Minister confirmed Solomon Islands’ ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, reinforcing the country’s support for protecting the high seas and strengthening global ocean governance frameworks.

He underlined the urgent need to scale up global climate ambition, warning that low ambition under the Paris Agreement risks placing vulnerable countries like Solomon Islands on an uncertain future path.

He called on partners to commit to bold climate action to keep the 1.5°C target within reach.

PM Manele acknowledged development partners’ contributions to disaster preparedness and resilience in the region. He encouraged further investments in nature-based solutions and critical infrastructure to support adaptation in vulnerable, low-lying island states.

On regional cooperation, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ support for ongoing Pacific regional architecture reform.

He highlighted the need to consolidate and streamline regional efforts under a sovereign and unified Pacific structure guided by international law.

He also thanked France and the European Union for their continued support through the Samoa Agreement, the EU-Pacific Economic Partnership Agreement, and reciprocal visa arrangements. He welcomed the prospect of the EU re-establishing a presence in Solomon Islands.

Solomon Islands joined fellow Pacific nations in endorsing the France–Oceania Summit Declaration, highlighting a shared commitment to collective action for a sustainable and unified Pacific future.

– OPMC