The United States Agency for International Development says one of its key objectives in the Pacific is to help countries and regional bodies better cope with the impacts of climate change.
USAID has just opened its first Pacific regional office, in Port Moresby.
The U.S. ambassador to Papua New Guinea, Teddy Taylor, says the US remains dedicated to the Pacific.
He says it's a region where thousands of U.S. troops sacrificed their lives to preserve peace and democracy in World War II, and the US remains committed to their memory and to the region.
He says the U.S. has engaged in major initiatives to support women's empowerment, help nations in the region adapt to climate change, and buttress the health care infrastructure and delivery system.
The acting director of the office, Daniel Miller, says the U.S. government, through USAID, is committed to sustainable development in the Pacific.
He says the opening of the office will allow for better coordination with Pacific government officials, donors and non-governmental organizations.
