Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, has emphasized the Fijian government’s commitment to expanding sports tourism, indicating that efforts will be led by Tourism Fiji and the Ministry of Tourism. Speaking at a special reception at the Australian High Commission welcoming the management team from the St Kilda Australian Football Club, he noted the growing enthusiasm for sports among the Australian and Fijian populations and the potential for enhanced collaboration in tourism-related areas.
Gavoka expressed gratitude towards Australia for its ongoing support, particularly under the elevated Vuvale Partnership, which seeks to strengthen ties between the two countries. He highlighted the opportunity to advance the skills of young Fijian football enthusiasts, showing Fiji’s interest in nurturing local talent through impactful programs.
The visit from the St Kilda Australian Football Club not only marks a commitment to developing sports but further solidifies the friendship between Fiji and Australia, particularly through sports diplomacy. Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald, acknowledged this by expressing the club’s eagerness to engage with Fijian communities, particularly focusing on joint talent development initiatives that would benefit young athletes.
In alignment with this sports-focused initiative, the St Kilda team is also visiting schools in the Central Division to conduct academy-style programs, while collaborating with local authorities like the FNRL to bolster development programs.
Both the anticipation of engagements in sports and the commitment to educational opportunities reflect a strong foundation for future collaborative efforts that hold the promise of fostering deeper ties and greater opportunities for the youth in Fiji. The intersection of sports and tourism can serve as a pivotal point for both nations, unleashing potential that can benefit young athletes while enhancing cultural and economic exchanges.
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