The Marshall Islands signs the Treaty of Rarotonga, reinforcing its commitment to a nuclear-free Pacific and regional security.
The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) has signed the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty, also known as the Treaty of Rarotonga, during a ceremony in Majuro. The signing coincided with Nuclear Victims Remembrance Day, an annual observance marking the impact of past nuclear testing in the region.
The treaty, established in 1985 and in force since 1986, is a regional framework aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation in the Pacific. By signing, the Marshall Islands signals its intention to be legally bound by the agreement, pending future ratification. The move aligns with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which prioritizes regional security and sustainability.
Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Secretary General Baron Divavesi Waqa welcomed the signing, noting its importance in strengthening regional cooperation.
“This step demonstrates the nation’s commitment to nuclear disarmament. The Republic of the Marshall Islands continues to bear the impact of nuclear testing, and this signing reflects Forum nations’ ongoing advocacy for a secure and nuclear-weapon-free region,” Waqa said.
The Marshall Islands has a history of nuclear testing conducted between 1946 and 1958, and its decision to sign the treaty is seen as a continuation of its advocacy for nuclear non-proliferation. The Pacific Islands Forum has reiterated its support for nuclear-free commitments and continues to encourage nations to uphold agreements that contribute to regional and global security.
Source: PIF Secretariat
