European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso swept into the Pacific summit in Auckland yesterday with the same message as UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who swept out - address climate change.
He opened his purse to announce a $17 million Pacific fund for climate change-related projects.
The addition of international heavyweights to the forum is part of New Zealand's bid to lift the profile and muscle of the Pacific Islands Forum.
As well, a United States delegation of about 50, including Deputy Secretary of State Thomas Nides and Assistant Secretary of State for Asia and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell, arrived from Washington yesterday.
The United States is stepping up its engagement with the region, and Dr Campbell recently led an extensive tour of Pacific countries, including Kiribati.