Fiji, Nov. 12 -- Maritime decarbonisation presents Pacific Island countries with an opportunity to strengthen regional connectivity, reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and build more resilient economies, Fiji Opposition leader and COP31 Pacific Ocean Envoy Inia Seruiratu says.

Seruiratu said shipping was a lifeline for Pacific communities, connecting islands, supporting trade, delivering essential goods and underpinning economic development across the region.

Addressing a maritime decarbonisation event at the Australian Pavilion at COP31 in Antalya, Turkiye, he said the transition to low-emission shipping should be viewed as an economic and development opportunity rather than an additional burden for Pacific countries.

"Maritim...