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 connections between their peoples. This commitment was articulated during a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Dr. Kurt Campbell.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting and provided a platform for both nations to explore opportunities for deeper collaboration on issues vital for multilateral and bilateral cooperation.
In his address, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its ongoing support of Fiji and the broader Pacific region, emphasizing initiatives aimed at promoting socio-economic development, climate resilience, and regional stability. He welcomed the U.S. effort to fortify bilateral relations, which includes aligning cooperation with Fiji’s developmental goals.
Rabuka also acknowledged the U.S.’s plans to establish a regional office for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in Suva, alongside the expansion of Peace Corps activities in Fiji and the wider Pacific area. The recent visit by Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn to Fiji underscores the organization’s commitment to bolstering support for the country and the region.
Additionally, Rabuka noted the significance of the newly signed Fiji-U.S. Air Transport Agreement, which will create new routes for Fiji Airways. The agreement was finalized by PM Rabuka and Dr. Campbell following approval from the Cabinet and is expected to enhance Fiji’s aviation sector, tourism, trade, and economy. Fiji Airways will begin flights from Nadi to Dallas, Texas, starting on December 10.
Prime Minister Rabuka also expressed appreciation for the contributions of the Fijian diaspora in the U.S., noting their crucial role in Fiji’s development through remittances and investments. He highlighted that boosting diaspora engagement is a key area of focus for Fiji, especially with the recent reopening of its Embassy in Washington D.C.
The discussions underscored the value of the Forum Leaders Meeting in strengthening U.S. collaboration with the Pacific region, with next year set to mark the third U.S.-Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Summit. In response, Dr. Campbell reiterated the U.S. commitment to enhancing cooperation with Fiji and commended Prime Minister Rabuka for his leadership and dedication to the Ocean of Peace Concept.