Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has called on Pacific and Southeast Asian leaders to unite in protecting the world’s oceans, warning that the survival of island nations, cultures, economies, and future generations depends on urgent collective action.

Speaking at the inaugural Melanesian Ocean Summit 2026, Prime Minister Marape said the gathering represented far more than a regional meeting, describing it as a defining global moment for ocean states and island communities.

“To others, it may just be an ocean, but to us it is life,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“Our oceans are tied to our identity, our culture, our livelihoods, and our economies. Sustaining these ecosystems is not just an environmental responsibility — it is our moral obligation.”

Prime Minister Marape thanked regional leaders, development partners, and participating nations for supporting the summit and recognising the urgent need for stronger ocean protection measures and sustainable economic practices.

He stressed that Pacific Island nations should no longer be viewed merely as “small island states,” pointing out that their collective ocean territories cover a vast portion of the planet and hold immense environmental and economic significance.

“We have every right to speak strongly about sustaining our oceans because these waters sustain our people and our future,” he said.

Prime Minister Marape said the ocean was central to the history and identity of Pacific peoples, whose ancestors navigated vast distances across the seas using traditional knowledge and skills long before modern technology existed.

“Our ancestors crossed these oceans with courage, wisdom, and deep respect for nature. The ocean connected our communities through trade, relationships, and shared culture long before the modern world emerged.”

Prime Minister Marape welcomed the participation of leaders from across Melanesia, Polynesia, Micronesia, and Southeast Asia, saying the summit conversations must continue beyond Port Moresby and become embedded in wider regional and international frameworks.

He called for balance between economic development and environmental sustainability, warning against reckless exploitation of marine resources as Asia’s economic growth accelerates over the coming century.

“The appetite to harvest from the earth and sea will only grow larger in the next 100 years,” he said.

“But we must not plunder and destroy our oceans. We must work in harmony with nature, not against it.”

Prime Minister Marape also delivered an emotional reflection on the state of the planet, saying humanity must act now to ensure future generations inherit a livable world.

“Years ago, many of us did not carry bottles of water everywhere we went. Today we do. Tomorrow, if we are careless, we may even struggle for clean air and oxygen,” he said.

“God created this planet with life-giving properties unlike any other in the universe. We have a duty to protect it.”

Drawing inspiration from Papua New Guinea’s founding father, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Prime Minister Marape said collective action and shared responsibility were essential in addressing global environmental challenges.

Quoting the spirit of Sir Michael’s leadership philosophy, Prime Minister Marape said the burden carried by one nation should become the responsibility of all nations working together.

“The pain of one nation facing environmental stress should not be left to that nation alone,” he said.

“If we stand together as Pacific nations and work with our partners across Southeast Asia and the world, our collective voice will become stronger and more effective.”

Prime Minister Marape urged leaders attending the summit to treat the gathering as a historic turning point for global ocean conservation.

“This is not just another conference or ceremonial gathering,” he said.

“This is a moment for humanity to decide whether we will protect the planet that sustains us. We do not owe it only to the world to do what is right — we owe it to ourselves and to our children.”

Prime Minister Marape concluded by calling on all participating nations to remain focused and united in advancing practical solutions for ocean protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

“This moment must become a turning point,” he said. “Let history record that we chose to protect life, protect our oceans, and protect the future.”