Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is heading Fiji’s delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa this week. The Prime Minister’s Office announced that he will depart for Samoa today, with a schedule that includes several engagements throughout the week, such as bilateral meetings with development partners.
The delegation comprises senior cabinet ministers, high-ranking government officials, and representatives from the Office of the Solicitor-General. CHOGM unites leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations spanning Africa, the Caribbean and Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.
This marks the first time a Commonwealth leaders meeting is being held in the Pacific region. Moreover, the Samoa CHOGM is a significant event as the Commonwealth celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. It will also be the inaugural CHOGM attended by the new Head of the Commonwealth, His Majesty King Charles III.
The theme of this year’s CHOGM, ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth,’ underscores the need for the 56 member countries to leverage their strengths by fostering resilience, unlocking potential, utilizing the ‘Commonwealth Advantage,’ and creating a digitally connected Commonwealth. This transformation is essential for ensuring a sustainable future where no individual is left behind.
Fiji’s involvement in CHOGM 2024 reflects its strong commitment to global and regional peace and solidarity, which is central to the country’s foreign policy. Engaging in global and regional forums is crucial for advancing Fiji’s bilateral relationships and promoting multilateral cooperation.