A pledge of hundreds of millions of dollars more in additional financial assistance highlighted Day One of the historic Pacific Island Country Summit in Washington, DC today. The first-ever presidential-level meeting saw all the leaders from 14 far-flung Pacific nations sign on to a "declaration of partnership" with the U.S.

The unprecedented gathering of leaders from across the Pacific for a meeting at the White House signals Washington's heightened attention to the region. This comes as China attempts to expand its own influence among Pacific Island nations. The Washington Post quoted U.S. officials as saying the Biden Administration would announce an investment of more than $860 million in expanded programs, more than half of the estimated $1.5 billion provided in the past decade.

The report also said officials will unveil a first-ever Pacific Island Strategy aimed at addressing top concerns such as pandemic recovery, technology investments and illegal fishing. But the most critical issue is the climate crisis, which was the focus of much of today's summit meeting.

Presidential special envoy for climate, and former secretary of state John Kerry presided over the discussion, noting, "This is a historic summit, and i know that responding to the climate crisis is paramount in all of your minds. its at the core, it's going to be and more so the core of our relationship going forward."

He acknowledged that the Pacific Islands are on the frontlines of the climate crisis and pledged America's full support. He also thanked the leaders, especially former Marshall Islands foreign minister, the late Tony De Brum, for helping to set the goal of the Paris Climate Agreement, which is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prevent global warming from rising more than 1.5 degrees. Beyond that, rise scientists believe catastrophic events would be triggered such as extreme heat waves and destruction of up to 90 percent of the world's reefs.

"It really came from your persistence, your commitment so I want to thank you for that; it made a difference to the world, as you know in Glasgow that is the target that was adopted. So it's a tribute to your commitment and persistence so we thank you very much for that," he shared.

The summit concludes Friday, Guam time. The leaders are scheduled to have lunch with congressional leaders, and President Joe Biden will host a dinner at the White House.

Guam governor Lou Leon Guerrero is also attending the summit, she joined U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken at the head table. In a news release she said the first day of the summit included presentations on the various funding opportunities for infrastructure, transportation, and many others. The Governor added: “As we enter an era of increased focus in the region, we join fellow Pacific Island leaders in urging for more consistent and sustainable actions from the United States."