Solomon Islands joins OACPS Summit in Malabo to strengthen global partnerships and sustainable development efforts.
Solomon Islands participated in the 11th Summit of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Heads of State and Government, held from 27–29 March 2026 in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
Convened under the theme “A Transformed and Renewed OACPS in a Changing World,” the Summit brought together leaders from member states to reflect on the Organisation’s achievements and challenges over the past fifty years since its establishment in 1975, and to chart a forward-looking path for strengthened cooperation.
Leaders reaffirmed their collective commitment to the principles and core values of the OACPS, expressing renewed confidence in the Organisation’s reform agenda and its continued transformation in response to a changing global landscape.
The Summit adopted the Malabo Declaration, outlining key priorities:
A Transformed and Renewed OACPS: Leaders reaffirmed their strong commitment to the effective and timely implementation of the Samoa Agreement and called on Member States and partners to accelerate its ratification to unlock its full benefits for sustainable development and strengthened partnerships.
Financial Governance and Sustainability: The Summit mandated continued engagement with the European Union to strengthen partnership implementation and called for diversified and innovative financing approaches to enhance the Organisation’s financial sustainability.
Solidarity Among Member States: Leaders underscored the importance of unity grounded in sovereignty, mutual respect, and shared responsibility, while expressing solidarity with countries facing conflicts and other crises, and rejecting actions that undermine stability.
Multilateralism and Global Governance: The Summit reiterated calls for comprehensive reform of the United Nations system, including the Security Council, to ensure equitable representation of developing countries, and emphasized strengthened collaboration with regional organisations.
Trade, Investment and Economic Integration: Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fair and rules-based multilateral trade and deeper economic integration to promote diversification, value addition, and sustainable industrial development.
Digital Transformation and Innovation: The Summit supported the establishment of a digital platform to connect youth and entrepreneurs across OACPS regions to foster innovation, collaboration, and investment opportunities.
Development Finance: Leaders advocated for the adoption of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) and the operationalization of Loss and Damage mechanisms tailored to the needs of Small Island Developing States and other vulnerable economies.
Solomon Islands was represented at the Summit by its Embassy in Brussels, which is accredited to the OACPS.
The Solomon Islands Government reaffirms its commitment to the OACPS and looks forward to continued collaboration with member states and partners to advance shared priorities for sustainable development, resilience, and inclusive growth.
SOURCE: MFAET PRESS RELEASE
