The Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Peter Roberts, reinforced the strong economic partnership between Fiji and Australia during the Australia Day celebrations at his residence in Tamavua. In his remarks, he emphasized the significant potential for deeper economic integration that can benefit both nations.
Roberts noted that the economic engagement between the two countries has flourished, with two-way trade reaching an impressive $4.4 billion Australian dollars, equivalent to approximately FJD 6.5 billion. He pointed out that Fiji experienced a notable trade surplus with Australia, highlighting the strength of this bilateral trade.
Tourism is another crucial aspect of their economic relationship. According to Roberts, Australians constitute the largest group of visitors to Fiji, accounting for around 45 percent of all tourists. He praised the strong connectivity and investment flows that continue to bolster the partnership.
He shared an inspiring example from a recent visit to Taveuni, where he met a local exporter of cassava and taro. This experience underscored the importance of fostering local exporters while also recognizing that both countries should strive for more significant economic collaboration.
Roberts argued that closer economic integration would not only strengthen supply chains but also enhance the mutual economic security of both nations. He encouraged both Fiji and Australia to broaden their definitions of partnership to encompass economic prosperity in addition to traditional facets like government and security cooperation.
This focus on economic partnership lays the groundwork for future growth and strengthens the ties between the two countries, providing opportunities for local exporters and benefiting both nations in the long run. With the ongoing positive trajectory of their relations, there is hope for even greater collaboration and prosperity ahead.
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