My recent journey through the Pacific over the past two weeks has been an enlightening experience, one that has left an enduring impression on my perspective.

The cultural diversity, resilience, and potential of the people in this region are truly remarkable and deeply rooted in their rich heritage.

One particularly striking experience occurred during my visit to the Solomon Islands. Here, I witnessed impressive agricultural initiatives aimed at achieving food self-sufficiency through organic farming. What truly captivated me, however, was the preservation of ancient practices that sustain the culture and vitality of the soil. It was a testament to the profound connection between tradition and innovation.

Another memorable stop on my journey was Fiji, where the stunning landscapes were matched only by the vibrant tapestry of cultures and ethnicities. What stood out even more was the thriving tourist industry that has flourished in harmony with the local way of life. Fiji serves as a shining example of how economic progress can be achieved while preserving the cultural and environmental integrity of a nation.

Attending the Leaders Forum in the Cook Islands was a remarkable experience that showcased the symbolic richness of the Pacific. The event’s impressive organisation and effective representation left an indelible impression. It was a testament to the region’s ability to come together and address common challenges through dialogue and collaboration.

These experiences resonate with the origins of the Organization of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), established in 1975 in Guyana. At its inception, OACPS recognised the shared history of colonialism among its member nations and the need to unite, exchange experiences, and collaborate to navigate the challenges of the global world.

In the decades since its establishment, the world has undergone significant changes, emphasising the importance of multilateralism. In today's interconnected world, no country can operate in isolation. We must unite and learn from one another, especially in the face of pressing global challenges such as climate change.

Climate change is a prime example of the need for collective action. Countries in the global south, including OACPS members in the Caribbean, Africa, and the Pacific, bear the brunt of its devastating impact. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events threaten the livelihoods and futures of OACPS member nations.

To effectively address these challenges, we must not only learn from each other’s experiences but also speak with a unified voice on the global stage. The OACPS has already demonstrated its crucial role in this regard. When Vanuatu initiated discussions at the United Nations on declaring climate change a violation of human rights, the collective action of OACPS members played a pivotal role in advancing this important agenda. It underscores how solidarity and cooperation can lead to positive outcomes.

As I continue to reflect on my experiences in the Pacific, I am deeply committed to ensuring that the OACPS and its structures facilitate the sharing of knowledge and support among its members. We must develop common positions on global platforms to address our shared problems effectively. These experiences on the ground have reinforced the importance of the visionary leaders who founded OACPS in Guyana and the need for their wisdom to guide us as we move forward together, embracing unity, resilience, and a shared vision for a better future.

At the Pacific Islands Forum meeting in the Cook Islands, I was deeply impressed by the various political initiatives to mitigate the effects of climate change and address other challenges facing the region. Our concerns are similar, and through convergence, we can overcome them.

This is the case, for instance, with the Pacific 2050 Strategy, a long-term vision and strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, endorsed by the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders in 2022. It aims to protect and secure the Pacific people, place, and prospects through climate change and resilience, ocean and fisheries, biodiversity and conservation, security and human rights, economic prosperity and well-being, governance and regionalism, culture, and identity. All this resonates with us.

• Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti is the Secretary-General of the Organization of African Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS)