Fiji, Sept. 11 -- Pacific Islands Forum Chair and Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration is a powerful commitment to protect the region

from great power rivalry and uphold peace, security, and dignity for Pacific peoples.

"The Ocean of Peace Declaration is a reclamation of our sovereignty and our shared destiny. It is a solemn vow that our seas, air and lands will never again be drawn into the vortex of great power rivalry," Manele told the commemorative event Wednesday.

He said the declaration draws strength from history, recalling the devastation of World War II when Solomon Islands became a battleground.

"For our people, these war years were of fear, displacement, and loss. T...