Fiji is poised to establish advanced meteorological training facilities with funding from the Japanese Government, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of local and regional forecasting organizations. An official Exchange of Notes signing ceremony took place at the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS) office in Laucala Bay, where Japanese Ambassador Rokuichiro Michii and Fiji’s Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, formalized the agreement.
Ambassador Michii highlighted that cooperation between Fiji and Japan dates back to the 1990s when Japan assisted in constructing the existing meteorological center in Nadi. He emphasized that given the escalating impacts of climate change and natural disasters, preparedness has become a collective responsibility, warranting collaboration and information-sharing.
Minister Tuisawau described the initiative as a crucial milestone for Fiji’s progress and development in the Pacific, stressing the country’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters. He noted the importance of strengthening systems for disaster prevention and monitoring to mitigate risks and enhance response capabilities. He expressed gratitude towards the Japanese Government for this significant investment.
The project will include the construction of training facilities that comply with World Meteorological Organization (WMO) guidelines, as well as calibration facilities for meteorological instruments. A dedicated library will also be established to support research and training in meteorology.
This collaboration aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance Fiji’s disaster management framework, reflecting similar initiatives previously announced, including the construction of regional centers for improved meteorological services. Overall, these efforts signify a positive step towards strengthening disaster resilience in Fiji and the Pacific region, offering hope against the challenges posed by climate change.
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