fijimofa

𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐌𝐄 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐀𝐁𝐔𝐊𝐀 𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐔𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐀𝐍 𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐈𝐆𝐍 𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐒 𝐇𝐎𝐍. 𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐍𝐘 𝐖𝐎𝐍𝐆

Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka met with Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Penny Wong, and Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite, in Suva today.

In welcoming the Australian delegation, Prime Minister Rabuka said that the meeting reaffirmed the enduring strength of the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership.

The meeting focused on strengthening Fiji and Australia’s bilateral relations and our shared commitment in economic development, climate resilience, regional security, and people to people links under the Fiji-Australia renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership.

The meeting was an opportunity for Minister Wong to reiterate Australia’s commitment to working with the Pacific family to achieve the two countries’ shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous and unified region.

‘Australia listens and responds to Fiji’s needs and values the leadership role that it plays to ensure peace and unity within the region’ she said.

Prime Minister Rabuka and Foreign Minister Wong also discussed her visit to the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, where she will make announcements on Australia’s support to bolster the Government of Fiji’s work on improving healthcare outcomes, and its response to the HIV outbreak – a tangible achievement under our Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership.

In acknowledging the support, Prime Minister Rabuka highlighted that the enhancement of the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH) is a key priority under the Australia-Fiji Development Partnership Plan, aimed at enhancing healthcare services for the people of Fiji.

Minister Wong said she was pleased to be back in the Pacific, and to be accompanied by Assistant Minister Thistlethwaite for this important visit.

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FIJI ASSUMES CHAIRMANSHIP FOR THE REGIONAL COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT (RCA) FOR THE ASIA PACIFIC AT THE 47TH MEETING OF NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES TO THE RCA, NADI

Fiji assumed the chairmanship of the Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA) for the Asia Pacific at the opening of the 47th Meeting of National Representatives of the Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology for Asia and the Pacific in Nadi, this morning. The meeting is jointly coordinated by the Ministries of Agriculture & Waterways and Foreign Affairs.

The Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Waterways, Dr. Andrew Tukana and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA’s) Director for Technical Cooperation Asia and the Pacific Division, (TCAP) Mr Deng Ge officially opened the 4-day meeting. In his opening remarks, Dr Tukana said the benefits of the RCA to Fiji are tangible, lasting, and deeply appreciated, stating that beyond technical assistance, the RCA represents a shared commitment to peaceful progress through science.

He highlighted that Fiji’s collaboration with the RCA through the IAEA has produced benefits such as: ✅️Strengthening agriculture and food security, ✅️ Combating climate change and protecting the environment, ✅️ Advancing human health and medical services, ✅️ Building human capital, ✅️ Creating a platform of regional solidarity and building new networks.

IAEA Director-TCAP Mr Deng Ge extended his sincere thanks to the Government of Fiji, for their warm hospitality and the excellent arrangements made for this important gathering.

“As Fiji now assumes the Chairmanship, I am confident that under its leadership, the RCA will continue to thrive and expand its impact across the region. The IAEA is proud to have supported the RCA through our technical cooperation programmes. As you know, technical cooperation remains central to the Agency’s mission of driving social and economic progress across Member States."

✨️Read more here: https://bit.ly/4jbPzVI

FIJI TO HOST 47TH REGIONAL MEETING OF NATIONAL RCA REPRESENTATIVES IN NADI NEXT WEEK 🇫🇯🇫🇯

The “47th Meeting of National Representatives of the Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology for Asia and the Pacific” (RCA) begins in Nadi next week on Tuesday 20th May and is jointly coordinated by the Ministries of Agriculture & Waterways and Foreign Affairs.

More than 50 delegates from 22 RCA Government Parties will converge in Nadi for 4 days to collectively discuss regional priorities, strengthen collaboration, address challenges and identify new pathways to strengthen the impact and relevance of RCA in the region.

Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Waterways, Dr. Andrew Tukana and IAEA’s Director for Technical Cooperation Asia Pacific Division, (TCAP) Mr Deng Ge will officiate the opening session for the 4-day meet.

The RCA comprises 22 Government Parties (GPs) who are Member States of the IAEA in the Asia-Pacific region. These countries include Australia, New Zealand Fiji, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Palau, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

FIJI AND NEW ZEALAND CONVENE HIGH LEVEL CONSULTATIONS ON THE DUAVATA PARTNERSHIP
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The Governments of Fiji and New Zealand are today convening the Fiji–New Zealand High Level Consultations, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation. The Consultations will bring together senior officials from both Governments to review current areas of cooperation and explore new opportunities for deeper collaboration.

The one-day Consultations are being convened at the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS) complex in Suva, and will be presided by Fiji’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr Raijeli Taga, and New Zealand’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Mr Bede Corry.

Dr Taga welcomed Mr Corry and his delegation from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and conveyed her gratitude to New Zealand for their support in undertaking this important dialogue. She acknowledged New Zealand’s contributions to Fiji’s development through the Duavata Partnership and highlighted that today’s Consultations demonstrates the strength of our enduring partnership, expressing confidence that the deliberations will yield meaningful outcomes.

Additionally, Dr Taga said that today’s Consultations complement Fiji’s Foreign Policy goals on realigning development cooperation to reflect the nation’s current and emerging challenges and opportunities, ensuring that our partnership remains responsive and strategic.

Dr Taga joined Mr Corry in expressing confidence that the outcomes of the Consultations today will forge stronger cooperation between the two nations.
In response, Mr Corry said that he was delighted to be in Suva to hear directly from senior Fiji Government officials on Fiji’s foreign policy, regional cooperation, and national development priorities.

Mr Corry added that he is also looking forward to sharing the New Zealand Government’s perspectives on the pressing issues facing our two nations and our wider region.

FIJI’S NON-RESIDENT AMBASSADOR DESIGNATE TO SAUDI ARABIA PRESENTS CREDENTIALS IN RIYADH, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA 🇫🇯🇸🇦

Fiji marked a significant milestone in its diplomatic relations as His Excellency Mr. Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya, Fiji’s first non-resident Ambassador designate to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, presented a copy of his Letter of Credence to His Excellency Abdulmajeed Al Semari, Under Secretary of Protocol Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During the formal meeting held in Riyadh, Ambassador Koya and Under Secretary Al Semari exchanged cordial greetings and engaged in discussions centered on mutual interests aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Fiji and Saudi Arabia.

Fiji and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia officially established diplomatic relations on 4 August, 2015. Since then, both nations have been committed to fostering cooperation across various sectors, including development, education, and international diplomacy.

Ambassador Koya is scheduled to present his official credentials to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, King of Saudi Arabia at a forthcoming ceremony.

This appointment underscores Fiji’s dedication to enhancing its diplomatic presence in the Middle East and reflects the shared commitment of both countries to deepening their partnership in areas of mutual benefit.

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QATAR MINISTER OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS RECEIVES COPIES OF CREDENTIALS FROM FIJI’S AMBASSADOR H.E. KOYA 🇫🇯🤝🇶🇦

Fiji’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Excellency Ambassador Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya, recently presented copies of his credentials to the Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Doha.

The meeting marked a key step in reaffirming the diplomatic ties between the Republic of Fiji and the State of Qatar, ahead of Ambassador Koya’s official presentation to the Emirate.

During the bilateral consultations, Ambassador Koya and Minister Al Muraikhi discussed shared aspirations for enhanced cooperation in the following sectors: Civil aviation and connectivity; Visa exemptions and facilitation; Tourism and investment promotion; Trade and business development; People-to-people exchanges; and Labour mobility and human capital development.

Ambassador Koya acknowledged the presence of around 120 Fijians residing and working in Qatar, primarily in aviation, noting opportunities for further Fijian workforce participation various sectors such as hospitality, tourism, construction and security.

Discussions also touched on Fiji’s global priorities, including its work on climate change, renewable energy, the Fiji’s Foreign Policy White Paper and National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050.

Ambassador Koya was accompanied by First Secretary Mr. Sanaila Laqai, and becomes the fourth non-resident Ambassador to Qatar since diplomatic relations were formally established on 20 October 2010.

Minister Al Muraikhi wished Ambassador Koya success in his role and reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across key development sectors.

FIJI’S AMBASSADOR MEETS FIJIAN COMMUNITY IN DOHA, QATAR 🇫🇯🤝🇶🇦

Doha, Qatar - Fiji’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates and Non-Resident Ambassador of Fiji to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Ambassador Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya, recently met with members of the Fijian community in Doha.

The event provided a meaningful opportunity for Ambassador Koya to connect directly with Fijians living and working in Qatar, and to share key national developments and updates on the work of the Fiji Embassy in Abu Dhabi, which is concurrently accredited to Qatar. He highlighted the Embassy’s expanding outreach across the region and reaffirmed the Fiji Government’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties with the United Arab Emirates, the State of Qatar, and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

Ambassador Koya extended his heartfelt appreciation to Mr Mohammed Imroz —a Fijian pilot flying for the Royal Family of Qatar—and his family for their generous hospitality and for bringing the Fijian community together. He also acknowledged and thanked all Fijians in attendance for their warm welcome and enduring Fijian spirit, which continues to shine abroad.

The gathering was attended by Fijians working across a range of sectors including aviation, hospitality, security, and education, who shared their personal experiences and reaffirmed their commitment to proudly representing Fiji in the Gulf region.

The Fiji Embassy in Abu Dhabi continues to work in close partnership with regional stakeholders and the Fijian diaspora across the Middle East to promote Fiji’s national interests and provide support to its citizens abroad.

AMBASSADOR KOYA PRESENTS CREDENTIALS TO THE DEPUTY AMIR OF THE STATE OF QATAR 🇫🇯🤝🇶🇦

Doha, Qatar – Fiji’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Excellency Ambassador Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya, formally presented his Letters of Credence as the Non-Resident Ambassador of the Republic of Fiji to the State of Qatar to His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Amir of the State of Qatar.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Koya conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka and the Fijian people, for the continued good health of His Highness the Amir and for the ongoing prosperity of the people of Qatar.

In receiving the credentials, His Highness Deputy Amir Al Thani acknowledged the strength of the 15-year bilateral relationship between Fiji and Qatar, and recognized Fiji’s strategic role in the Pacific. He further noted the deepening people-to-people ties, including Fiji’s growing popularity as a tourist destination among members of the Qatari Royal Family, and expressed confidence that these cultural and personal exchanges would help to broaden cooperation across sectors.

Ambassador Koya reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly as both nations explore new and emerging opportunities in: Civil aviation cooperation; Visa exemption initiatives; Sports diplomacy; Trade, Investment, Economic and business engagements and partnerships; Tourism cooperations; and Human development and labour mobility.

Ambassador Koya was accompanied by First Secretary at Fiji Embassy in UAE Mr. Sanaila Laqai at the ceremonial presentation, which featured a guard of honour and official flag-raising ceremony for all presenting Ambassadors. Following the ceremony, the Ambassador held meetings with several key Qatari government entities, including: Qatar Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Qatar Civil Aviation Authority; Qatar Investment Authority, through Hassad Foods and other business meetings.

AMBASSADOR TARAKINIKINI LEADS ADVANCE TEAM TO JERUSALEM 🇫🇯🇮🇱

Fiji’s recently appointed non-resident Ambassador to the State of Israel, His Excellency Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini led an Advance Team to Jerusalem in the State of Israel this week. The deployment marks a significant step in preparation for the establishment of Fiji’s new Embassy in Jerusalem.

Following the Cabinet approval, the Team comprising of senior officials from the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and Ministry of Defence were deployed to Jerusalem to conduct the necessary risk assessment, as well as logistical and administrative arrangements prior to the inaugural opening of Fiji’s Embassy in Jerusalem.

Ambassador Tarakinikini said that the Team is working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel and Fiji’s Honorary Consul in Tel Aviv who are very supportive of the establishment process.

The establishment of Fiji's Diplomatic Mission in Jerusalem symbolizes Fiji’s longstanding relations and commitment to deepen the bilateral relations and cooperation. Fiji and Israel have shared diplomatic ties since 1970 with cooperation ranging from peace and security, agriculture and climate change.

In line with the Cabinet Decision, the Advance Team is expected to finalise the risk assessment for the Mission establishment in Jerusalem. The Team will also visit potential sites for Fiji’s Chancery. Additionally, they will be guided by Protocol on the due process requirements of the State of Israel in line with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic and Consular Relations.

Members of the Advance Team included Director Asia and Middle-East Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Josefa Tuima, Deputy Permanent Representative of Fiji to the United Nations, in New York, Mr. Vueti Kosoniu May, Solicitor General’s Office Mr. Eliesa Tuiloma, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Isireli Narawa, Manager Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mr. Anasa Waqa.

The Advance Team from Fiji will conclude their assessment by the end of this week before returning home.

NON-RESIDENT AMBASSADOR OF THE KINGDOM OF NETHERLANDS VISITS MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS 🇫🇯🤝🇳🇱

The Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr Raijeli Taga this morning received a courtesy visit from the Non-Resident Ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands to Fiji, Mr. Adrianus M. M van der Vorst. The meeting convened at the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters was an avenue to explore ways to deepen the bilateral relations between the two nations.

Dr Taga welcomed Ambassador Vorst and acknowledged that there is potential to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation between the two nations. She acknowledged Netherlands ongoing cooperation with Fiji through the European Union (EU). The engagements cover a wide range of topics including sustainable livelihoods, governance, gender and human rights, climate change and disaster risk reduction – areas that contribute meaningfully towards Fiji’s national development.

Dr Taga noted with appreciation that there has been an increasing number of Fijians studying in the Netherlands in recent years. On regional priorities, Dr Taga highlighted the Oceans of Peace Concept that underscores Pacific’s shared commitment to global peace and security, and region’s collective support for the 2050 Strategy and its implementation plan.

In conclusion, Dr Taga said the Ministry looks forward to working closely with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Wellington, New Zealand to progressively advance the relations between the two nations.

Ambassador Adrianus M. M van der Vorst thanked Dr Taga for the constructive dialogue they had on building an enduring partnership between Fiji and the Kingdom of Netherlands. He is grateful for the kind hospitality accorded to him during his visit to Fiji this week. The Ambassador remains optimistic that the cooperation between our two nations will continue to elevate to new levels.

Since the establishment of the diplomatic relations in 1972, Fiji and Netherlands have collaborated mainly through multilateral commitments at the United Nations on key areas such as peacekeeping, peace and security, water management, sustainable development.

FRENCH AMBASSADOR VISITS MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
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The French Ambassador to Fiji, Her Excellency Ms. Julie Le Saos during her courtesy visit to the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters met with the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr Raijeli Taga.

The introductory meeting convened yesterday focused on strengthening Fiji-France collaboration in the lead-up to the third 🇺🇳 United Nations 🌊 Ocean Conference (UNOC3) scheduled to take place in Nice, France🇫🇷 from 9 – 13 June 2025.

The high-level 2025 UN Ocean Conference co-hosted by France and Costa Rica aims to advance the Implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

In welcoming Ambassador Saos, Dr Taga acknowledged the ongoing cooperation between Fiji and France through multilateral and bilateral engagements on issues of mutual interest to both the nations. She reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to deepen the bilateral relations and strategic cooperation between the two nations and reiterated Ministry’s support for the upcoming UN Oceans Conference through continued cooperation with the French Embassy in Suva.

Ambassador Saos highlighted the great potential to further enhance the bilateral relations between the two nations particularly in the field of trade, economic cooperation, defence and climate action. She thanked Dr Taga for the opportunity to discuss the possible avenues to strengthen the collaboration through continued dialogue.