Fiji Prime Minister urges world to heed Pacific climate warning and act now

Speaking at a pre-COP31 traditional welcome, Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka described the Pacific Ocean’s distress as a warning that extends far beyond the region, noting that warming seas and El Niño influence global rainfall, harvests, floods, droughts and fires. He argued the Pacific should be viewed not merely as an object of sympathy but as an early indicator of risks that affect all humanity, citing rising seas, water shortages and threats to food supplies.

Using Tuvalu as a concrete illustration—where king tides, salty gardens and persistent flooding are already reality—he urged the international community to keep the 1.5 °C goal within reach, channel climate finance directly to vulnerable communities, and grant the ocean a formal role in climate negotiations. Rabuka framed land, sea and people as a single entity called “Vanua” and called for dialogue based on “talanoa,” an open, inclusive and honest conversation. He concluded by emphasizing shared stewardship of the planet and the need for generous listening and solution-focused cooperation.