In fact, the United Nations Law of the Sea was a point of discussion during the historic first meeting ofthe Forum in 1971.'Through the Forum, the Pacific region already has a collaborative and integrated ocean management system in place. It strengthens the Pacific Islands Regional Ocean Policy, particularly through stronger provisions in the areas of coordination, resourcing and implementation. It also aspires to protect, manage and sustain the cultural and natural integrity of the ocean for present and future generations of the broader global community.5 At its heart is a desire to build pride, leadership, learning and cooperation across the ocean environment.