Fiji, Sept. 10 -- Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has told Forum Leaders the Pacific must never be treated as a playground for outside powers, stressing that solidarity is the region's greatest strength in a fast-changing global environment.

"The world around us is changing fast. Competition on our global interests is intensifying. And the Pacific must never be seen as an arena for others," Manele said when opening the Forum Leaders Plenary in Honiara Wednesday.

He reminded leaders that the region cannot afford to be "passing bystanders" to global competition.

"We are not passing bystanders. We are nations born by shared values and the Pacific way. Our theme 'In Me Together' is a resounding call for a renewed commitment ...