The Australian Government is participating in the Pacific Islands Forum being held in Fiji this week.
Former Defence Force Chief and Executive Member of the Australian Security Climate Leaders Group Admiral Chris Barrie (Ret’d) said “With rising sea levels caused by climate change threatening the very existence of some Pacific Island nations, Pacific leaders are well aware that climate change, not China, poses the greatest threat to our regional security.”
“Former heads of Pacific nations acknowledged late last week in the lead up to the Pacific Islands Forum, and urged Australia and other nations to step up their contribution to climate action in response. As the new Australian Government is meeting with its Pacific counterparts at the forum, they must be prepared to meet the security risks posed by climate change with rapid and significant climate action.” added Adm Barrie.
“This should begin with a comprehensive risk assessment of climate-security threats led by the nation’s top experts in a transparent manner. We must properly understand the risks our region faces in order to best respond and share this with the Australian people and our neighbours.” concluded Adm Barrie.
