The secretary-general of the Pacific Islands Forum, Greg Urwin, says the region's nations were in danger of becoming weak links in the global fight against transnational crime and terrorism.
Opening a crime and security seminar in Fiji, Mr Urwin said criminal conglomerates and terror networks had been quick to use opportunities from globalisation in a region once regarded as isolated.
These include the internet, and increases in trade, tourism and travel volumes within the region.
He said there was growing evidence that transnational organised crime in the region continued to evolve.
Mr Urwin said Pacific nations had to continue with efforts to improve security.
