He said India was pleased to stand with the region in ensuring that sustainable use of oceans and marine resources emerged as a “distinct element in the Sustainable Development Goals” finalised recently. “Our challenges are similar. Climate change is an existential threat to the Pacific Islands. We both seek a concrete and effective outcome on climate change at Conference of Parties-21 in Paris later this year,” he said. “We must press for reform in the UN Security Council to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in the 21st century. We seek your support for the text of the President of the General Assembly as a basis for reforming the Security Council,” he urged. Emphasising that trade, not aid, was the “enabler for development”, Modi outlined a host of areas for cooperation between India and the island nations. From announcing gratis visas for citizens of Pacific Island countries, to improving market access for Small Islands Developing States, Modi said India wanted a “partnership of equals” in the region.