Pacific Island Leaders Urge Strong Replenishment of IDA21 to Boost Development and Climate Resilience

The meeting, hosted by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, echoed calls made earlier this year by African leaders for increased financial support through IDA21.

Leaders from Pacific Island nations are calling for a robust replenishment of the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) to support their development and climate resilience efforts. During a meeting with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, representatives from 11 Pacific countries stressed the importance of IDA’s role in addressing their unique challenges, including geographic isolation, limited infrastructure, and severe climate impacts.

The meeting, hosted by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, echoed calls made earlier this year by African leaders for increased financial support through IDA21. The fund, which provides grants and concessional financing to the world’s most vulnerable nations, is replenished every three years. In December, donor countries will finalize pledges for the 21st replenishment in South Korea.

Tongan Prime Minister and Forum Chair Hu’akavemeiliku emphasized that if IDA21 meets its targets, it could help build a transformative and resilient future for the Pacific. Leaders discussed how IDA21 could advance the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, which aims to boost climate resilience, connectivity, and job creation in the region.

Pacific leaders highlighted IDA’s crucial support for infrastructure, disaster resilience, digital connectivity, and economic opportunities. They also endorsed the World Bank’s goal of allocating 45% of its financing to climate-related projects and called for increased access to concessional finance.

Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa emphasized the need for a strong IDA21 replenishment, acknowledging global economic challenges but urging donors to recognize the pressing needs of vulnerable nations. This aligns with African leaders' calls for greater financial support at the Nairobi Summit earlier this year.