Fiji and Japan have strengthened their partnership in digital security and regional development, marking an important milestone in their 50-year diplomatic relationship. The recent bilateral meeting took place during the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Ministerial meeting in Tokyo, headed by Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, and Japan’s Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, Seiichiro Murakami.
A significant focus of the discussions was Japan’s ongoing support of Fiji’s cybersecurity initiatives. The officials reflected on a successful joint cyber drill held in Suva last October, which bolstered Fiji’s emergency response capabilities. Kamikamica shared notable achievements in Fiji, including the establishment of a Cyber Emergency Response Team (CERT), the country’s accession to the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, and the rollout of real-time cyber monitoring systems.
Japan’s contributions, particularly in investing in the ICT infrastructure at the University of the South Pacific and a National Data Center in Suva, were positively acknowledged by Kamikamica. Looking towards the future, he presented the recently launched National Digital Strategy and sought further collaboration with Japan in critical areas such as ICT infrastructure for Fiji National University, rural internet expansion through the Universal Service Project, e-government automation, and cooperation on ITU’s Smart Island Project.
During the ministerial event, Kamikamica chaired a panel discussion titled ‘Secure and Trusted Digital Environment’, addressing concerns related to outdated communication infrastructures and the vulnerabilities posed by threats targeting artificial intelligence systems. Japan’s effective approach to securing its national data infrastructure was highlighted, serving as a model for Fiji’s ongoing efforts.
This renewed commitment marks a significant step towards enhancing regional cyber resilience and emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in creating a secure digital landscape. Looking ahead, Fiji’s initiatives aim to pave the way for a safer digital environment that benefits not only the nation but the broader Pacific region.
Overall, Fiji’s proactive approach and the strengthened partnership with Japan present a hopeful outlook for the country’s digital security infrastructure, enhancing both national and regional capabilities against emerging cyber threats.
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