Delegates from dozens of island nations have gathered in Bali for a key meeting, with the environment high on the agenda.

Indonesia is hosting the first high-level meeting of the Archipelagic and Island States Forum. One of its major goals is boosting efforts to protect the shared marine environment.

An Indonesian initiative, the forum was established in 2018 and now has 51 member states. This time, leaders from Micronesia, Tuvalu and four other countries are taking part, with Japan among the nations sending delegates.

Participants discussed a range of issues such as how to deal with rising sea levels and tackling marine pollution.
The leaders adopted a declaration laying out the need to cooperate on climate change, as well as joint efforts to improve forecasting and early warning capabilities.

The meeting comes as the US and China are both increasing their presence in the Indo-Pacific region. Indonesian President Joko Widodo said Jakarta hopes to keep its distance from any antagonism between the major powers. He said: "Many parties choose rivalry. Indonesia chooses to strengthen cooperation and collaboration that is inclusive with as many countries as possible."

Joko also said the aim of the forum is to create peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.