Fiji and the United States have pledged to enhance their relationship to foster economic growth, defense and security, tourism, trade and investment, climate resilience, and personal connections. This commitment was articulated during a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Dr. Kurt Campbell.
The discussion took place alongside the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, serving as a platform for both countries to explore opportunities for deepening collaboration on issues significant to their mutual interests in both multilateral and bilateral contexts.
In his address, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its continuous support to Fiji and the wider Pacific region, particularly in advancing socio-economic development, climate resilience, and ensuring regional peace and security. He welcomed the U.S.’s dedication to fortify bilateral relations by aligning assistance with Fiji’s developmental priorities.
Rabuka acknowledged the U.S.’s initiative to establish a United States Agency for International Development (USAID) regional office in Suva, along with the expansion of Peace Corps operations in Fiji and the broader Pacific area. The recent visit by Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn highlighted the organization’s commitment to enhancing support for Fiji and the region.
Additionally, Rabuka noted the significance of the new Fiji-U.S. Air Transport Agreement, which opens new travel routes for Fiji Airways. This agreement was signed by both leaders following Cabinet approval and is seen as a pivotal development for Fiji’s aviation sector, likely to boost tourism, trade, and the economy. Flights from Nadi to Dallas, Texas, are set to commence on December 10.
Prime Minister Rabuka also expressed gratitude towards the Fijian community in the U.S. for their crucial role in Fiji’s development through remittances and investments. He emphasized that improving engagement with the diaspora is a vital area of cooperation, as Fiji seeks to further this through its recently reopened Embassy in Washington D.C.
The meeting underscored the Forum Leaders Meeting’s importance in enhancing U.S. collaboration with the wider Pacific region, with plans for the third U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Summit scheduled for next year. In response, Dr. Campbell reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Fiji and thanked Prime Minister Rabuka for his exemplary leadership and dedication to the Ocean of Peace concept.