Fiji, Sept. 13 -- Pacific Islands Forum Leaders have formally declared the region an "Ocean of Peace," a move they say is essential to protecting sovereignty, addressing climate threats, and confronting the legacy of nuclear weapons testing in the Pacific.

In adopting the Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration, Leaders reaffirmed peace as a defining element of the "Pacific Way," grounded in dialogue, consensus, and respect for cultural traditions.

"We, the Leaders of the Pacific Islands Forum, therefore declare the Blue Pacific Continent as an Ocean of Peace," the Forum Leaders communique said.

The declaration commits Forum members to embedding peace in national and regional policies, cultivating inclusive and culturally rooted approa...