The meeting led by Acting Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka resulted in key cabinet decisions, notably the approval of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the People’s Republic of China.
The cabinet approved two specific agreements: one focusing on Trade Facilitation and Cooperation and the other on enhancing the Blue Economy. The Trade MOU establishes a Working Group responsible for assessing and promoting trade growth, ensuring effective communication, encouraging business involvement, supporting industry associations, and tackling trade challenges. This group aims to bolster bilateral trade relations and further initiatives under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Operating under the China-Fiji Trade and Economic Cooperation Commission, the Working Group will address trade barriers and convene regularly to ensure effective dialogue.
The Blue Economy MOU is designed to create a framework for improved cooperation, stimulate new economic initiatives within the blue economy, and foster high-quality bilateral investments. Its objectives include promoting sustainable development, facilitating strong partnerships to implement the 2030 Agenda, and enhancing investment collaboration.
Additionally, the agreement seeks to assist businesses in establishing marine economic cooperation parks, exploring investment opportunities, and providing efficient investment platforms.