INCOMING Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele, confirmed that the admission of Guam and American Samoa as associate members is based on the 2005 criteria.
Both territories were upgraded from observer status to associate members following the endorsement by PIF leaders during the 53rd Forum, held in the Kingdom of Tonga from August 26 to 30.
Speaking to the media over the weekend, PM Manele explained that one of the key criteria established in 2005 is the cultural and linguistic ties these territories share with the wider Pacific family.
However, he noted that a review of the Regional Architecture, which includes membership criteria, is ongoing.
“Once this review is complete, it may affect the membership of these territories or even some of the current members,” PM Manele stated.
“For now, their admission is based on the 2005 criteria, which remains in place until the review is finalized. At that point, their memberships may be reevaluated in terms of privileges and rights,” he added.
According to The Diplomat, Guam and American Samoa, as unincorporated territories of the United States, had previously held observer status within PIF.
Their new status as associate members grants them the ability to speak during plenary sessions at leaders’ meetings and committee discussions, as well as to nominate individuals for PIF working groups.
Although associate membership does not include decision-making, it provides an important platform for input on regional governance.
The upgrade in status reflects the shared regional challenges that Guam and American Samoa face, such as fisheries management, transnational crime, maritime safety, development, and climate change.
As part of the Pacific region, their perspectives on these issues are critical to the Forum’s broader goals.
However, geopolitical considerations are also at play.
The Pacific region has increasingly become an arena for competition between global powers, particularly with China’s growing presence.
As a result, the United States, through its territories and free association compacts with Palau, the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia, has sought to strengthen its influence within the PIF.
Solomon Islands will host the 54th PIF in Honiara from September 8 to 12, 2025, providing an opportunity to further shape the region’s future in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
Solomon Star, Honiara
