Cook Islands welcomed delegates from across the Pacific and Asia to the opening of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Regional Dialogue at the National Auditorium on Tuesday, May 6.

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.

The aim of this Dialogue is to accelerate access to climate finance and strengthen regional resilience, which are important priorities for the nations.

According to Cook Islands Government, this Dialogue marks a key moment as the country celebrate its 60^th anniversary of self-governance. It reflects the nation’s ongoing commitment to taking a leading role in climate action within the region.

In a video address to participants on Tuesday, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown, who is attending the 58^th Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors in Milan, Italy, discussed 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,” Brown stated.

“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.”

Wayne King, director of Climate Change Cook Islands, highlighted the significance of the moment.

“Hosting this GCF Dialogue during our 60^th anniversary is no accident. It’s a reflection of our forward-looking national development agenda, from what is, to what can be,” King said.

“Climate disruption is already reshaping our communities. We need climate finance that is simplified, accessible, and grounded in genuine partnership.”

King emphasised the Cook Islands distinct geography as well as the northern atolls vulnerability.

He urged partners to keep their word of commitment and simplify the process of obtaining GCF fundings.

“True partnership, 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.”

Hermant Mandal, the director of the GCF’s Division of Asia Pacific (DAPAC), expressed gratitude for the hospitality given from the Government and the people of the Cook Islands.

He acknowledged the longstanding leadership role of the Pacific and Asian SIDS (Small Island Developing States).

“This region has always punched above its weight. From governance to innovation, Pacific voices have shaped the Green Climate Fund. With nearly 20 per cent 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.”

Mandal repeated the Fund’s commitment to reforming access pathways and enhancing regional presence. He shared an outline of GCF’s evolving vision, which included the “50” by “30” method to mobilise USD 50 billion in climate investment by 2030.

The Dialogue held under the theme “Towards Resilient SIDS in Asia Pacific: Advancing Climate Action, Sustainable Growth and Inclusive Development”, runs from May 6 to May 9.

The sessions for this week will involve technical deep dives, country programming dialogues and updates on GCF’s strategic framework.