[Photo: FILE]Pacific leaders are stepping up regional efforts to prepare for a prolonged fuel crisis, as the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran continues to threaten fuel supplies and drive up costs. Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa says the fuel crisis remains a priority for Forum leaders, with a regional response mechanism already approved to help countries deal with the impact. Waqa says Pacific countries have little control over the conflict and its effects, but can work together to strengthen their response, including through cooperation on fuel procurement. Waqa says the longer the conflict continues, the greater the pressure will be on Pacific economies and household livelihoods. Leaders are continuing discussions on how Pacific countries can support each other and better manage the economic fallout from the crisis.