Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka attended the official dinner marking the opening of the inaugural Melanesian Ocean Summit last night at APEC Haus.

The event was hosted by Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and brought together Pacific leaders, government officials, development partners and invited guests in support of stronger regional cooperation and ocean protection across Melanesia.

During the gathering, Prime Minister Marape stressed the importance of protecting the Pacific Ocean, describing it as vital to the livelihoods, culture, identity and economic future of Pacific communities.

He also called on Melanesian nations to work together on marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, climate resilience and safeguarding ocean resources for future generations.

The dinner gave leaders and delegates an opportunity to meet informally before summit discussions begin over the next three days.

Guests were later entertained with a cultural performance inspired by Moana, highlighting the strong ancestral and spiritual connection Pacific people share with the ocean.

Prime Minister Rabuka is expected to address the summit plenary today on “Ocean Leaders’ Pledges, Commitments and Ambitions”.

He is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, Prime Minister Marape and Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat.