The Government of the Cook Islands today welcomed delegates from across the Pacific and Asia to the opening of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Regional Dialogue, held at the National Auditorium in Rarotonga. The event, co-hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister, Climate Change Cook Islands, and the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, brings together climate leaders, policy-makers, and technical experts to accelerate access to climate finance and strengthen regional resilience.
The Dialogue marks a key moment in the Cook Islands’ 60th anniversary of self-governance and reflects the nation’s ongoing commitment to regional leadership on climate action.
In a video address to participants, the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands, the Honourable Mark Brown, emphasised the importance of partnerships that deliver for communities:
“Climate finance today cannot be about isolated projects. It must be about building systems that are fit-for-purpose… systems capable of withstanding the pressures of an ever-changing global environment. This Dialogue is an opportunity to co-design solutions that preserve national and regional ownership while strengthening delivery where it matters most, in our communities, on our lands, and across our oceans,” said Prime Minister Brown.
Welcoming delegates to the island, Mr Wayne King, Director of Climate Change Cook Islands, highlighted the significance of the moment:
“Hosting this GCF Dialogue during our 60th anniversary is no accident. It’s a reflection of our forward-looking national development agenda, from what is, to what can be. Climate disruption is already reshaping our communities. We need climate finance that is simplified, accessible, and grounded in genuine partnership,” he said.
Mr King also highlighted the unique geography of the Cook Islands and the vulnerabilities of its northern atolls, calling on partners to honour their commitments and simplify access to GCF funds. “True partnership,” he noted, “means not overcomplicating the process. We must do our best here, so we can say to our political leaders: we have made the case, clearly and strongly.”
Mr Hemant Mandal, Director of the GCF’s Division of Asia Pacific (DAPAC), thanked the Government and people of the Cook Islands for their hospitality, noting that this is his first visit to the region in his current role. He acknowledged the leadership role that Pacific and Asian SIDS have long played:
“This region has always punched above its weight. From governance to innovation, Pacific voices have shaped the Green Climate Fund,” said Mr Mandal. “With nearly 20% of our Asia Pacific portfolio invested in this region (Asia Pacific), we are proud of what we’ve built together, and we are here to grow that partnership.”
Mr Mandal outlined GCF’s evolving vision, including the “50 by 30” strategy to mobilise USD 50 billion in climate investments by 2030, with a strong emphasis on the most vulnerable. He reiterated the Fund’s commitment to reforming access pathways and enhancing regional presence.
The Dialogue runs from 6–9 May under the theme “Towards Resilient SIDS in Asia Pacific: Advancing Climate Action, Sustainable Growth and Inclusive Development.” Sessions will include technical deep dives, country programming dialogues, and updates on GCF’s strategic framework.
This event reinforces the Cook Islands’ leadership on sustainable development, and its determination to be a voice for resilience, equity, and bold climate ambition across the Blue Pacific Continent.
