Fiji and the United States have pledged to enhance their relationship to foster economic growth, defense and security cooperation, tourism, trade and investment, climate resilience, and connections between their peoples.
This commitment was established during a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Dr. Kurt Campbell, which took place on the sidelines of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting. The gathering provided a platform for both nations to explore opportunities for deeper collaboration on issues significant to their mutual interests.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the U.S., which has contributed to socio-economic development, climate resilience, and regional security in Fiji and the Pacific at large. He welcomed the U.S. commitment to enhance bilateral relations and align their cooperation with Fiji’s development priorities.
He also acknowledged the establishment of a United States Agency for International Development (USAID) regional office in Suva and the expansion of Peace Corps activities in Fiji and the region. The recent visit of Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn underscored the organization’s dedication to increasing its support for Fiji.
Rabuka noted the significance of the new Fiji and U.S. Air Transport Agreement (ATA), which creates new travel routes for Fiji Airways. The agreement was signed by Rabuka and Dr. Campbell after receiving Cabinet approval and is expected to enhance Fiji’s aviation sector, tourism, trade, and overall economy, with flights from Nadi to Dallas, Texas, set to begin on December 10.
The Prime Minister also expressed appreciation for the contributions of the Fijian diaspora in the U.S. towards the nation’s development through remittances and investments. He indicated that advancing engagement with the diaspora is a priority for Fiji, especially through its recently re-established Embassy in Washington D.C.
The meeting underscored the significance of the Forum Leaders Meeting as a key opportunity to reinforce U.S. collaboration with the Pacific region, with the next U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Summit scheduled for next year. Dr. Campbell reiterated the U.S. commitment to enhancing cooperation with Fiji and praised Prime Minister Rabuka for his leadership and dedication to the Ocean of Peace Concept.