Google is set to establish a new cable landing station at its ICT facility in Natadola, which will support essential infrastructure such as data transmission servers, racks, and power generation equipment for international fiber optic cables being laid in Fiji. This was announced by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday.
The Prime Minister highlighted that this new infrastructure aims to position Fiji as a key hub for digital connectivity in the Pacific region. The facility will feature the second cable landing station on Viti Levu, complementing an existing station in the Central Division. This development will significantly enhance Fiji’s internet connectivity, contributing to a more resilient network across the country.
The advanced ICT facility is designed to facilitate Google’s international subsea telecommunication cables that will connect Fiji with locations including the United States, Australia, Japan, and for the first time, Chile. This expansion in connectivity will help foster regional digital integration and enhance Fiji’s role as a critical node in the global internet network.
Rabuka remarked that the project is integral to strengthening international data flows, stimulating innovation, and ensuring that Pacific communities can engage in the global digital economy. He emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive technological advancement, ensuring that all Fijians benefit from this initiative.
Google representatives at the event included Brian Quigley, Google’s VP of Global Network Infrastructure, and Shirshendu Bhattacharya, lead for Submarine Innovation. Quigley noted that the Natadola ICT facility is a significant step in creating a premier connectivity hub in the Pacific and reflects Google’s dedication to enhancing global connectivity.
Additionally, this project involves collaboration with key local stakeholders, including the Fiji National Provident Fund and Fiji International Telecommunications Ltd (FINTEL).
Overall, the establishment of this ICT facility in Fiji marks a pivotal moment for the country, propelling it toward becoming a leader in digital connectivity within the region, while also building a promising foundation for future technological advancements.
This initiative underscores the positive potential of global partnerships in elevating local economies and providing new opportunities within the digital landscape.
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