Minister Tabuya to Represent Fiji at Key Global Ocean Meeting

Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya will represent Fiji at a major international ocean policy meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, highlighting the importance of Fiji’s presence in global decisions affecting the future of the world’s oceans.

Tabuya confirmed she will travel from 10 February 2026 to attend the first formal meeting of the Ocean Pioneers Coalition, a global platform bringing together ministers and leading experts focused on ocean protection and sustainable use.

The meeting is being hosted by the Oceano Azul Foundation, which serves as the coalition’s secretariat, with all travel costs covered by the organisers.

The session is expected to address several high-level priorities, including implementation of the BBNJ Agreement on protecting marine life in international waters, preparations for the first Conference of Parties under the new ocean treaty, deep sea mining discussions and precautionary pause proposals, and stronger recognition of ocean issues within global climate negotiations ahead of UNFCCC COP31.

Tabuya said Fiji’s participation is critical given its identity and responsibilities as a large ocean state, with communities, livelihoods and food security closely tied to marine health and sustainable fisheries.

She said Fiji will contribute practical experience in areas such as marine spatial planning, ocean-climate diplomacy and sustainable ocean management, while also advocating for the interests of Small Island Developing States.

While the Minister is abroad, Maciu Nalumisa will serve as Acting Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change.

Government officials say Fiji’s involvement in such global forums ensures Pacific perspectives are represented where international ocean and climate policy directions are being shaped for the future.