Fiji has officially taken over the chairmanship of the Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA) for Research, Development and Training in Nuclear Science and Technology for the Asia Pacific region during the opening of the 47th Meeting of National Representatives in Nadi on May 20th. This meeting, which involves over 50 delegates from 22 member countries, aims to enhance regional cooperation and strategies focused on nuclear science’s role in development sectors such as agriculture, health, and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Andrew Tukana, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture and Waterways, along with Deng Ge, Director for Technical Cooperation in Asia and the Pacific Division of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), officiated the opening ceremony. Dr. Tukana emphasized Fiji’s significant engagement with the RCA over the past three years, noting improvements in agricultural practices, food security, and regional solidarity resulting from collaborative initiatives.
During the meeting, it was announced that Fiji had secured approval for a new project aimed at assisting farmers who cultivate vegetatively propagated crops, showcasing Fiji’s commitment to addressing local agricultural challenges. The ongoing collaboration with the RCA has yielded benefits that extend beyond agriculture, encompassing climate change mitigation, enhanced human capital, and improved health services.
The expectations are high as Fiji embarks on its leadership term, with core objectives focused on inclusivity, alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals, and bolstering partnerships with the IAEA and other organizations. The meeting reflects a hopeful outlook for significant advancements in nuclear technology applications that can promote sustainable development across the Asia Pacific.
As Fiji steers this collaborative effort, there is optimism that its leadership will inspire innovative solutions to shared challenges, paving the way for a brighter future for the region.
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