Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua emphasized that strengthening economic and trade collaboration is a key focus of the Fiji-Australia and Australia Business Councils Joint Forum.
This three-day Forum provides a platform for government representatives, members of the Fiji-Australia and Australia-Fiji Business Councils, business owners, investors, and trade officials to devise strategies to enhance cooperation in trade, tourism, and business relations between Australia and Fiji.
Qereqeretabua noted that such Forums serve as launching pads for promoting economic cooperation through innovative strategies and solutions. She acknowledged Australia as Fiji’s largest source of tourism, a significant trade partner, a diverse export destination, and a key contributor to remittances with a strong investor presence.
She highlighted Fiji’s strategic location in the Pacific as a hub that offers greater access to emerging trade markets, showcasing substantial potential for agricultural exports like taro, ginger, kava, mahogany, and coconut oil.
According to Qereqeretabua, from August 2023 to January 2024, Fiji has attracted 15 investment projects from Australia, primarily in Information and Communications Technology (ICT), renewable energy, and tourism, reflecting the deepening economic ties between the two countries.
She urged the delegates to work together on innovative approaches to overcome new business challenges and seize dynamic economic recovery opportunities.
Qereqeretabua expressed gratitude to the Fiji-Australia and Australia Business Councils for organizing the Forum, which aims to strengthen economic and trade relations through established partnerships.
The Forum also reviewed the practical implementation of the renewed Vuvale Partnership, signed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australian Prime Minister Hon. Anthony Albanese in October last year. This partnership prioritizes Fiji’s foreign policy objectives of sovereignty, security, and prosperity, while promoting cooperation across various sectors, including infrastructure, economic development, climate resilience, and cultural exchange.
This Forum represents a significant advancement in the collaborative efforts between Fiji and Australia to enhance bilateral relations and strengthen friendships through the renewed Vuvale Partnership.