Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong is currently in Fiji to participate in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Foreign Ministers Meeting in Suva. This marks her fifth visit to the country as Foreign Minister, reflecting the Australian Government’s commitment to its significant relationship with Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
Senator Wong expressed that attending the PIF Foreign Ministers Meeting presents a valuable opportunity to collaborate and share ideas in line with the Pacific Way, addressing mutual challenges such as climate change, regional security, and economic growth.
“Australia envisions a peaceful, stable, prosperous, and unified region, with the Pacific Islands Forum at its core. Together, we will work on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, aimed at promoting a more interconnected and resilient Pacific,” said Wong.
Additionally, she mentioned discussions will include Australia’s bid to host the COP31 Climate Change Conference in collaboration with Pacific Island nations, highlighting the need to bring global attention to the climate crisis affecting the region and to expedite global action.
For the first time, Australia’s Ambassador for First Nations People, Justin Mohamed, will accompany Senator Wong to the PIF Foreign Ministers Meeting, emphasizing the importance of First Nations perspectives in their discussions and strengthening ties within the PIF community.
During her visit to Suva, Senator Wong will also tour the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, an essential component of Fiji’s healthcare system, and participate in the announcement of the selected contractor for the CWM infrastructure masterplan.