The image that many people embrace of the Pacific Islands is one of an earthly paradise, where time is spent basking leisurely under coconut palms on a sandy white beach looking out over coral reefs awash in an emerald green sea. Though it is easy for the efficiency-driven people of the industrially advanced nations to envision island life in such idyllic terms; for the native peoples, all is not that simple. The tropical breezes enjoyed so much by tourists can turn into devastating typhoons, and the lapping tides into raging waves.

No longer able to insulate themselves from the outside world, many island communities are attempting to modernize, but at the risk of exposing their traditional social systems and natural environment to harmful influences. At the same time, the remoteness of the island regions makes it difficult for their constituent countries to participate fully in the wider international society. Likewise, the geographic and economic limitations of these island states pose formidable obstacles to their development.

Though many island nations have attained independence from their former Colonial Powers, most, still highly dependent on foreign aid, are seeking ways to achieve true autonomy. Both Japanese aid and investment in the Pacific islands region have been increasing over recent years. Unfortunately, though, many of these programs have been implemented without sufficient understanding of the region's traditions and social systems. Neither have adequate channels been established for exchanging information between Japan and the countries of the region.

Against this tapestry and in recognition of the fact the countries of Oceania, like those of Asia, are Japan's neighbors and share profound historical and cultural ties with her, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation hosted the Pacific Island Nations Conference in 1988. This conference, subtitled "Friends Across Oceans, Peace Across Borders," gathered together in Tokyo top-ranking officials from the Pacific island nations, neighboring countries, regional and international agencies, and various Japanese sectors. In response to a request expressed by the participants, the decision was made to establish a Pacific Island Nations Fund within the Sasakawa Peace Foundation to conduct specific regional projects.