Fiji, May 22 -- Pacific Island countries have welcomed the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of a landmark resolution backing the International Court of Justice (ICJ) advisory opinion on climate change, with Fiji warning that statehood and maritime rights must remain protected despite rising sea levels.

The resolution, adopted by the UN General Assembly Wednesday by 141 votes to eight, reinforces that countries have legal obligations under international law to address climate change and prevent further environmental harm.

Speaking on behalf of Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS), Fiji Permanent representative to the UN, Filipo Tarakinikini said the resolution was especially important for Pacific nations threatened by...