Pacific Islands Forum Leaders will meet with the Government of Japan in Tokyo for the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting – PALM10 – from July 16 to 18.

In a Pacific Islands Forum statement, Prime Minister Mark Brown, the outgoing Forum chair, said: “Pacific engagement with Japan through the PALM process began nearly three decades ago and our strong bonds run deep. This foundation has enabled us to find meaningful ways to work towards our common aspirations for peace, harmony, security, social inclusion and prosperity.”

The PALM process presents an invaluable opportunity for the Pacific and Japan to discuss shared concerns and priorities in a spirit of genuine partnership and friendship.

To deliver on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the region’s development aspirations, genuine partnerships are essential. Japan has been a long-time partner to the Pacific as a region, as well as to Pacific Islands Forum members individually.

Brown noted “it is essential that PALM10 strengthens collective efforts in responding to challenges including climate change and disasters; ocean and environment; resources and economic development; technology and connectivity; and people centred development”.

“The 2050 Strategy and its Implementation Plan now frame the partnerships the Forum seek as a collective. The value and strength of our partnerships will be measured against commitments and support for the 2050 priorities, and we have worked closely with Japan to align our actions moving forward.”

PALM10 is the culmination of numerous preparatory meetings between the Pacific Islands Forum and Japanese officials.

“We look forward to continuing frank dialogue on Japan’s discharge of ALPS Treated Water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the Pacific Ocean, understanding and recognising a healthy ocean is critical for our islands, securing the sustainable future of our Blue Pacific continent,” Brown said.

“Climate change and oceans are key for our region, as well as strengthening development cooperation, trade, investment and tourism links, people to people connections and cooperation in international spaces. We also seek to build Japan’s support for critical regional initiatives such as the Pacific Resilience Facility.”

PM Brown will co-chair the meeting with Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida.