The Pacific Islands Forum, held in Tonga, attracted a swarm of international delegations, highlighting the region's growing geopolitical significance.
While the forum focuses on Pacific issues, a distinct competition for influence emerged, with China and Australia vying for regional dominance.
Despite concerns about the focus on security initiatives, the Pacific Resilience Facility, a climate change financing fund, offers hope for sustainable development.
The Pacific Islands, though small in size, hold immense power, as their waters influence the future of the world in profound ways.