Fiji and New Zealand pledge deeper ties as they meet on Pacific Islands Forum sidelines
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon reaffirmed the long-standing friendship between Fiji and New Zealand, signaling a commitment to deepen cooperation across trade, security and development. The leaders spoke on the margins of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara, reflecting on the Duavata Partnership and the shared values that underpin Fiji–New Zealand relations. Rabuka also expressed gratitude for Wellington’s ongoing support.
Rabuka praised the importance of strengthening ongoing programmes and initiatives, highlighting the spirit of duavata across areas of mutual interest. Luxon, for his part, reaffirmed New Zealand’s support for the Ocean of Peace concept and pledged to boost bilateral trade with Fiji. He said: “New Zealand is committed to strengthening bilateral trade with Fiji, with the goal of reaching the $2 billion mark.”
On regional security and public health challenges, Luxon noted that New Zealand stands ready to consider and assist with any future requests from Fiji in areas such as HIV/AIDS, tackling organized crime, and addressing drug trafficking. Both leaders agreed to explore new areas of cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The meeting underscores a shared push to broaden the scope of the Duavata Partnership, aligning with broader Pacific regional priorities for sustainable growth, security, and resilience. By reiterating support and outlining concrete trade and security objectives, the two nations signal a positive outlook for continued collaboration that benefits both peoples and contributes to stability across the Pacific.
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