Digital connectivity and climate responsibility at centre of Policy and Regulations Forum for the Pacific talks

Developments in satellite technology, subsea cable connectivity, spectrum management, and efforts to drive meaningful connectivity have been key focus areas for the Policy and Regulations Forum for the Pacific.

Speaking during the opening of the event, Policy and Regulations Forum for the Pacific Chairperson Tupou Baravilala says these are key enablers that are fundamental to building robust and resilient digital economies.

Baravilala says that participants will also receive expert briefings from industry partners.

She highlighted that the landmark advisory opinion on climate change delivered by the International Court of Justice last month clearly states that countries have legal obligations under international law to prevent foreseeable climate harm—or risk facing international legal consequences.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, says the forum is taking place at a time of critical importance, as the pace of digital transformation continues to accelerate globally.

For the Pacific, he noted, this presents both immense opportunities and complex challenges.

Kamikamica says Fiji’s experience with satellite connectivity and new technologies continues to evolve rapidly.

He says like many Pacific Island nations, Fiji’s geography requires innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide.

He adds that while Fiji has long relied on geostationary and medium-earth orbit satellites, the country was among the first in the region to license low-earth orbit services such as Starlink.