A significant boost to Fiji’s agricultural sector has been confirmed with a $12 million grant from Indonesia. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the importance of this funding during a bilateral meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, emphasizing it as a testament to the robust partnership between the two nations.
The grant will support the development of an Agriculture Demonstration Farm and Regional Training Centre in Dobuilevu, located in Ra Province. Rabuka expressed optimism that this investment will not only enhance food security but also generate employment opportunities, empower women, and pave the way for a more prosperous future for the region.
The project is currently at the tender stage, with construction expected to commence shortly. In his remarks, Rabuka pointed to the Fiji-Indonesia Friendship Association, established in 2014, as a vital component of their cultural and diplomatic ties, further emphasizing the value of these relationships.
Rabuka also advocated for the reinstatement of Fiji’s visa-on-arrival status to Indonesia, suggesting that simpler travel arrangements would facilitate greater exchange between the two nations. He acknowledged Indonesia’s Aid Scholarship (TIAS) Program, which has played a crucial role in equipping Fijian civil servants and private sector employees with essential skills in agriculture and healthcare.
The discussions during the meeting also extended to broader regional priorities, including Fiji’s vision for a peaceful Pacific endorsed by leaders at the Pacific Islands Forum. The leaders shared collective goals, including strengthening military cooperation and enhancing educational exchanges, especially for Fijian youth to train in agricultural practices.
President Subianto reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s development, particularly in agricultural initiatives and climate resilience, acknowledging the shared values that bind both archipelagic nations.
This grant marks a hopeful chapter in the collaboration between Indonesia and Fiji, embodying a commitment to mutual growth, regional stability, and a sustainable future for both countries. The effective partnerships established may not only benefit the economies of Indonesia and Fiji but also strengthen their ties as they work together to address the challenges faced by island nations in the Pacific region.
Leave a comment