Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Penny Wong, emphasized the importance of collaboration as equal partners, described by the principle of Vuvale, in tackling challenges like the rising drug issue.
Wong visited Fiji this week to announce the selected plan for the redevelopment of the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and to participate in the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting.
She stated, “The principle of Vuvale and our work with you means that we aim to be responsive. I will not dictate what we do here; instead, we partner with you on the programs and issues that your government and people prioritize and seek our support on.”
Wong affirmed that Australia will continue to support the Fiji Police Force in various fields, including intelligence and digital forensics.
Furthermore, she mentioned that Australia is involved in several bilateral and regional programs, enhancing law enforcement engagement to combat drug production and trafficking while addressing the broader social impacts of drug use.
Australia is also backing the establishment of police command centers, providing training in intelligence and digital forensics, and increasing collaboration on complex transnational investigations.