Solomon Islands wraps up UNOC3 in France, reaffirming its commitment to ocean stewardship and sustainable marine resources.
The Solomon Islands Government has concluded its participation at the 2025 United Nations Conference to Support the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (UNOC3), held from 9–13 June in Nice, France.
Led by Prime Minister Honourable Jeremiah Manele, the Solomon Islands delegation engaged actively throughout the week, attending all ten ocean action panels, high-level plenary sessions, and related side events. The country reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable ocean stewardship and regional and global cooperation to conserve and sustainably use marine resources.
The conference concluded with the adoption of the Nice Ocean Action Plan and a declaration titled Our Ocean, Our Future: United for Urgent Action. The declaration commits UN Member States to take bold and transformative actions to tackle the global ocean crisis, with emphasis on climate resilience, biodiversity protection, pollution reduction, and sustainable marine resource use.
The Solomon Islands Government welcomed the declaration, particularly its recognition of the unique challenges and leadership of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Key commitments include addressing sea-level rise, increasing ocean finance, conserving at least 30% of marine and coastal areas by 2030, supporting small-scale and artisanal fisheries, and applying a precautionary approach to deep sea mining.
“The ocean is at the heart of our identity and survival. Solomon Islands stands ready to implement the outcomes of UNOC3 and champion bold, inclusive, and sustained action for our ocean’s future,” Prime Minister Manele stated during one of the ocean action panels.
Following the conference, most of the delegation will return to Honiara and resume other official duties. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Manele and senior officials will proceed to Vienna, Austria, to participate in the OPEC Summit before attending the Melanesian Leaders’ Summit in Suva on June 23.
Prime Minister Manele is expected to return to the Solomon Islands on June 25. In his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Honourable Frederick Kologeto will serve as Acting Prime Minister.
Source: OPMC Press Secretariat
