Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka recently hosted Henry Liu, the Head of the CIA Office for East Asia and the Pacific, for discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Fiji and the United States. Accompanying Liu was the U.S. Ambassador to Fiji, Marie Damour.
The dialogue centered on enhancing regional security and deepening development cooperation, with Rabuka expressing appreciation for the U.S. government’s long-standing support in crucial sectors, including education, fisheries, and security. He emphasized the importance of continuing collaboration given recent changes in U.S. foreign policy and aid restructuring.
Rabuka raised concerns about the increasing threat of transnational crime in the region and stressed the necessity of a coordinated response between Fiji and the U.S. on these security challenges. He acknowledged the vital support provided by the U.S. Coast Guard, which has bolstered Fiji’s maritime security capabilities within its Exclusive Economic Zone.
Despite recent announcements of new U.S. tariff policies, Rabuka assured Liu of Fiji’s commitment to the U.S. partnership and its pursuit of discussions to manage the implications of such policies on national interests. He reiterated Fiji’s long-standing ties with the U.S., emphasizing mutual respect and shared goals for the region.
Liu reciprocated by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage in discussions about future collaboration, emphasizing the need to address security challenges in the Pacific. They agreed on the critical importance of improving security training, maritime awareness, and cooperation on transnational crime.
This meeting highlights Fiji’s strategy of maintaining its sovereignty while fostering international partnerships, showcasing the potential for enhanced cooperation to address regional security concerns. The dialogue reflects a hopeful trajectory for continued collaboration between Fiji and the U.S., especially in tackling shared challenges and promoting regional stability.
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