Leaders pose for a photo at the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, Monday, August 26, 2024. (Ben Mckay/AAP Image via AP)

Ulu of Tokelau, Alapati Tavite, left, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Niue Premier Dalton Tagelagi, right, chat before the Leaders' Plenary at the Pacific Islands Forum in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Charlotte Graham-McLay)

Cook Islands Prime Minister, and outgoing Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum, Mark Brown speaks at the opening of the annual Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Charlotte Graham-McLay)

President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr, poses for a photograph on Aug. 28, 2024, in Nuku'alofa, Tonga. (AP Photo/Charlotte Graham-McLay)