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From Silk Road to Blue Pacific: Tourism as a Bridge to Shared Prosperity
2 October 2025
The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) congratulates the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) on the launch of its High-Level Sustainable Tourism Policy and Development Strategy 2025–2030. This marks a significant milestone in shaping a tourism future that is resilient, inclusive, and rooted in Pacific values.
Speaking at the launch, SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker mentioned that SPTO recognises the strategy as a vital step forward. He added that without a clear roadmap, there’s a risk of losing sight of what truly matters—our people, our cultures, and our environment. “A well-defined strategy ensures that tourism development is intentional, not reactive, and that opportunities are harnessed rather than missed,” Cocker said.
“Our Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework 2021–2030 provides a shared vision for SPTO and its member countries, including RMI. Together, we have committed to a future where “by 2030, we, the Pacific people, are empowered by and benefitting from tourism that is resilient, prosperous and inclusive. It improves the well-being of our communities and protects, restores and promotes our cultures, islands and ocean ecosystems.”
Mr Cocker mentioned that RMI’s new strategy reflects this shared vision. Its focus on meaningful benefits—economic growth, cultural preservation, community pride, and environmental stewardship—is deeply encouraging. He said the phased approach, guided by capacity and readiness assessments, reinforces the principle that tourism must be locally led and community-driven. Not every island or village may choose tourism, and that choice must be respected. That is the essence of sustainable development.
“SPTO applauds the leadership of Hon. Minister, the Chairman, the CEO and the team at the Office of Commerce, Investment and Tourism (OCIT) for their boldness and foresight. We also thank you for inviting SPTO’s feedback, the invite to attend the launch and warm hospitality throughout the CEO’s visit. SPTO would also like to thank Fiji Airways for your support on the Nadi- Honolulu- Nadi sector. As your regional tourism body, we stand ready to support the implementation phase through our strategic focus areas: Sustainable Destination Management, Marketing and Events, Research and Insights, Partner Coordination, Capacity Building, and Aviation Connectivity. SPTO is just one email or phone call away. Tap into the support available through SPTO. Where we cannot assist directly, we will connect you with partners who can. That is the power of regionalism—working together to achieve our shared goals under the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
“We also take this opportunity to acknowledge RMI’s leadership as Chair of the SPTO Research and Statistics Board Sub-Committee. Your commitment to evidence-based planning is commendable and continues to strengthen our regional work. As a member of the SPTO SIST Board Sub-Committee, RMI has another platform to voice its unique challenges and priorities as a Small Island Sustainable Tourism
destination. Together, we are shaping a tourism future that honours our heritage, empowers our people, and protects our islands for generations to come.”
