Pacific wants climate, development focus at summit

Australia might be bringing the world's climate talks to the Pacific but it can expect few favours from those impatient for an emissions turnaround.

The Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting begins on Sunday, with heads of government from across the blue continent gathering in Palau for the annual talks.

A wrestle takes place each gathering between the needs of developed powers Australia and New Zealand and the 16 island nations of varied development levels.

All, however, are invested in an improved climate and none more so than host Surangel Whipps Jr.

The Palau president has form holding Australia's feet to the fire on its climate record.

Last year, he lashed Australia as "one of the largest contributors to global emissions through fossil fuel exports, accounting for approximately 4.5 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions".

"As the Pacific region faces the dire consequences of the climate crisis, we urge Australia to demonstrate solidarity and responsibility by the phasing out of coal and gas production and halting approvals of new fossil fuel projects," he told the Lowy Institute.

"We must act boldly today for ourselves, our children and future generations to reverse the trajectory, or as I like to say, turn the boat around on climate change, before it's too late."

While Australia continues to unearth and ship coal and gas in huge quantities, it is supplying plenty of support to the region.

In the past half-decade, it has provided $1.3 billion in climate finance, including renewable energy projects.

There is an expectation of more to come, including towards a Pacific-led resilience facility, perhaps announced at this summit.

Australia's climate record includes a landmark 2023 treaty with Tuvalu, the world's lowest nation and therefore most threatened by sea level rise, including provisions to resettle citizens in Australia.

Canberra also led a losing bid to host this year's global climate summit, COP31, which was roundly championed by the Pacific.

A compromise consolation prize will see lead-up events staged in the region, with Climate Minister Chris Bowen also to serve as President of Negotiations in Turkiye.