Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong, emphasized the importance of partnership in addressing issues such as the rising drug problem between Australia and Fiji. Wong’s visit this week included the announcement of the successful tender for the Colonial War Memorial Hospital redevelopment and her attendance at the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting.
Wong stated, “The principle of Vuvale and our collaboration is to be responsive. We are here to work with you on the programs and issues that the government and people prioritize.” She affirmed Australia’s commitment to aiding the Fiji Police Force in various areas, including intelligence and digital forensics.
Australia’s initiatives include bilateral and regional programs aimed at enhancing law enforcement efforts to combat drug production and trafficking, along with broader support to mitigate the social impacts of drug use. Wong mentioned the delivery of police command centers and training programs that focus on intelligence and digital forensics, as well as collaboration on complex transnational investigations.