Israel says Pacific Islands Forum accepted it as a partner

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced that the Pacific Islands Forum has accepted Israel as a partner in the regional group.

• Sa'ar announced Israel's acceptance as a partner, citing a decision by member-state leaders during their meeting in Palau.
• Sa'ar said the forum's secretary general informed him that leaders approved Israel's request, submitted during his June visit to Fiji.
• The Israeli Foreign Ministry said cooperation will focus on water management, desalination, agriculture, climate change, innovation and sustainable development.
• The Pacific Islands Forum has not publicly confirmed Israel's status and has not responded to requests for comment.