SBMA Release: SBMA participates in High-Level Regional Talks on Deep Sea Minerals
Image Credit: Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Immigration
L-R: Latishia Maui-Mataora (SBMA Policy & Regulatory Oversight Director), John Parianos (SBMA Knowledge Management Director), Honourable Sonny Williams (Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister), and Ms Antonina Browne (Deputy High Commissioner to Fiji)
The Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) recently participated in the first of its kind Ministerial Talanoa on Deep Sea Minerals (DSM), convened by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fiji, from 18 to 21 February 2025.
The Talanoa brought together Pacific Island Forum leaders, ministers and senior officials, regional and international stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges of DSM development and governance in the Pacific.
Providing a critical platform to strengthen regional coordination and reaffirm the shared commitment of Pacific nations to responsible DSM governance, which is grounded in science, environmental protection, and respect for each other’s sovereign rights over resources within their respective jurisdictions. Discussions also focused on aligning national frameworks with international obligations, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Representing the Cook Islands, SBMA’s delegation, led by Policy and Regulatory Oversight Division Director, Latishia Maui-Mataora and Knowledge Management Director, Dr. John Parianos, contributed to vital discussions on:
Strong Regulations & Governance: Reinforcing the importance of robust regulatory frameworks that align with international standards and safeguard Pacific interests.
Science, data, and environmental protection: ensuring independently verified data and collection underpin decision-making, alongside recognition of traditional knowledge and Pacific values.
Economic & Social Considerations: exploring ways to maximise national benefits while upholding environmental standards and community engagement.
Mrs. Maui-Mataora reaffirmed the Cook Islands’ commitment to a precautionary and science-based approach to seabed minerals development.
“The Cook Islands remains committed to maintaining a robust regulatory framework that ensures the responsible, sustainable, and transparent development of our seabed minerals sector for the benefit of current and future generations,” said Mrs. Maui-Mataora. “This Talanoa was a valuable opportunity to share experiences and strengthen our collective approach to DSM governance in the region.”
Additionally, Dr Parianos emphasised the importance of science in decision-making: “Ethical and independent science and knowledge-sharing are essential for informed policy development that respects our environment and Pacific values.”
The SBMA also acknowledges the support of the Cook Islands High Commissioner, Jim Armistead, and Deputy High Commissioner, Antonina Browne, who joined the delegation in Suva for the technical sessions and high-level dialogue.
The outcomes of this Talanoa will help shape ongoing regional efforts, with a progress report on the regional DSM approach expected to be presented to Pacific Leaders at the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting later this year.
Image credit: Pacific Islands Forum
Pacific Islands Forum Representatives Group Photo
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