A top State Department official was to lead the largest US delegation ever to attend the annual Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), held this week in Auckland, New Zealand, a US statement announced on Wednesday.

"Deputy Secretary of State Tom Nides is leading the largest and highest-level US delegation ever to participate in the Pacific Islands Forum," the US State Department press release said.

Senior officials from various US agencies and departments -- including the White House and US departments of state, commerce and defense -- were due to attend the forum from September 8-10.

"The United States is a Pacific nation with deep, enduring, and historic ties to the countries of the Pacific region," the statement said.

"As the region adapts to face the challenges of the 21st century, the United States is committed to engaging closely with friends and partners in all areas -- diplomatic, defense, and development -- to meet those challenges.

The Pacific Islands Forum, which this year marks its 40th anniversary, also was to be attended by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

Among the issues to be addressed at the summit of 16 regional nations are maritime security, women's empowerment, food security, and climate change, among others.