Fiji, Oct. 7 -- Forum Chair and Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr has called on international leaders to replace slow climate finance and debt with direct, grant-based investment, warning that Pacific nations are running out of time as the impacts of climate change intensify.

Addressing Leaders Plenary at the Pacific Pre-COP31 in Fiji, Whipps said the region was not seeking charity but finance delivered at the speed required to protect communities, economies and oceans.

"We are not asking for charity; we are demanding justice to act at the speed required to keep our heads above water," Whipps said.

He urged COP31 to deliver practical action on renewable energy, climate resilience and ocean health, arguing that continued reliance on fo...