Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua has highlighted that enhancing economic and trade collaboration is a primary objective of the Fiji-Australia and Australia Business Councils Joint Forum.
This three-day event presents an opportunity for government officials, members of the business councils, business owners, investors, and trade officials to discuss strategies aimed at improving cooperation in trade, tourism, and business relations between Fiji and Australia.
Qereqeretabua pointed out that such forums serve as important platforms for promoting economic collaboration through the implementation of innovative strategies and solutions. She acknowledged Australia’s significant role as Fiji’s largest source of tourism, trade partner, and diverse export destination, along with being a key market for remittances and a major investor.
She emphasized that Fiji’s strategic position as a hub in the Pacific provides enhanced access to new trade markets, which presents substantial potential for the export of agricultural products such as taro, ginger, kava, mahogany, and coconut oil.
Between August 2023 and January this year, Fiji has attracted 15 investment projects from Australia, primarily in sectors like Information and Communications Technology (ICT), renewable energy, and tourism, underlining the strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Qereqeretabua urged attendees to collaborate on innovative approaches to tackle new business challenges and explore flexible economic recovery opportunities.
She expressed gratitude to the Fiji-Australia and Australia Business Councils for organizing the forum to strengthen economic and trade relations through lasting partnerships.
The forum also reviewed the practical aspects of the renewed Vuvale Partnership, signed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in October of last year.
This partnership emphasizes three key priorities of Fiji’s foreign policy: sovereignty, security, and prosperity, and promotes cooperation across various areas including infrastructure development, economic growth, climate resilience, and cultural exchange.
Overall, the forum signifies a crucial advancement in the ongoing efforts of both countries to strengthen Fiji-Australia bilateral relations and enhance their friendship through the renewed Vuvale Partnership.