Op-ed: Time to Back Pacific-Led Solutions — But Is the U.S. Sending Mixed Signals on Ocean Sovereignty?
By Melino Maka
Tonga Independent News
In Washington D.C. this week, the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) has taken a bold and strategic step forward. Prime Minister Hon. Dr. ‘Aisake Valu Eke of Tonga, Chair of the Forum, alongside Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa, is leading a high-level mission to the United States with a clear and urgent message: support the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF), or risk undermining the region’s fight for survival in a warming world.
At the heart of this mission is a vision rooted in sovereignty and self-determination. The PRF is a Pacific-owned and Pacific-led grant financing mechanism aimed at building resilience in our most vulnerable communities. Unlike the traditional debt-heavy financial packages, the PRF is a vehicle for direct investment without pushing our nations further into unsustainable borrowing. The leaders’ presence in Washington during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings is no coincidence—it’s a call for immediate action and meaningful partnerships.
But while the Pacific advances innovative, home-grown solutions to tackle climate change, ocean degradation, and economic vulnerability, another story is unfolding that raises serious concerns about the sincerity of the United States’ engagement with our region.
Earlier this month, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order authorizing U.S.-flagged fishing vessels to operate more freely within the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) in the Pacific, notably around American Samoa and Hawaii. This move, touted as a win for domestic fisheries, appears to overlook a crucial fact: the United States is already party to a long-standing multilateral treaty with Pacific Island nations governing tuna fishing—an agreement that was renewed and extended to 2033.
This contradiction must be addressed. Pacific leaders and their people deserve clarity. On one hand, we are being courted for strategic partnerships and climate financing; on the other, unilateral actions undermine the spirit of regional cooperation and conservation that we have painstakingly built over decades.
The South Pacific Tuna Treaty, now in its fourth decade, is a cornerstone of Pacific-U.S. relations. It is not only about fisheries; it is about mutual respect, shared management of marine resources, and ensuring sustainable livelihoods for island nations. Any action by the U.S. that seeks to bypass or dilute this treaty undermines the trust and cooperation it took years to cultivate.
Amata Radewagen, the U.S. Congresswoman from American Samoa, recently spoke in favor of both the Tuna Treaty and expanded fishing rights under U.S. domestic law. Her position illustrates the confusion within U.S. policy circles and raises the question: Can the Pacific rely on Washington’s word when our ocean rights are so casually compromised?
This is precisely why the PRF is so important. It is a Pacific solution—crafted by Pacific minds—for Pacific problems. Since COP28, the Forum has raised US$150 million towards the US$500 million target. With less than two years to secure the remaining US$350 million, this advocacy trip could not be more timely. The PRF’s success depends on capitalising the fund ahead of COP31, with the goal of launching its first call for proposals at the 55th PIF Leaders Meeting in 2026.
But funding is only part of the equation. Political will from development partners like the United States must be grounded in respect for regional processes and existing agreements. The mixed signals—pledging support for resilience finance while undercutting fisheries agreements—send the wrong message.
As the PRF Treaty awaits ratification and final presentation to leaders in September 2025, Forum members must remain united and vocal. The Pacific is not a passive recipient of foreign aid. We are capable and willing to shape our destiny through mechanisms like the PRF, and we ask only for what is fair: true partnership based on equality and transparency.
To that end, President Trump must clarify his administration’s position on the Tuna Treaty. More importantly, he must affirm that the United States respects the ocean sovereignty of Pacific nations. Our EEZs are not open for unilateral exploitation. They are part of our identity, our economy, and our legacy to future generations.
The advocacy mission this week in Washington is more than a diplomatic visit—it is a statement. The Pacific is not waiting for change to happen. We are creating it. But for this to work, our so-called partners must stop talking out of both sides of their mouths.
Support the PRF. Respect the Treaty. That’s the partnership the Blue Pacific deserves.
