Fiji is set to receive increased aid from Japan, focusing on significant upgrades and support for key sectors.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that Japan would supply fire trucks for local airports and install an aircraft surveillance system at Nadi International Airport to enhance aviation safety.
Key decisions from the recent Cabinet meetings held on July 11, 12, and 15 include:
Grant funding for Fiji Airports:
Cabinet approved grant funding of 1.29 billion Yen (FJ$15 million) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This funding will enable:
– Installation of aircraft surveillance systems at Nadi and Labasa airports.
– Delivery of five fire trucks for Nausori, Labasa, Savusavu, and Matei airports.
– Provision of three rescue boats for Nadi International Airport.
– Consultancy services to improve aviation safety.
MOU with International Peace Institute:
Cabinet endorsed an MOU with the International Peace Institute (IPI) to support Fiji’s preparations for COP29. IPI engages in peace and security issues and aids Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on climate change.
Financial Services Ombudsman:
A Financial Services Ombudsman (FSO) will be established within the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) to handle consumer complaints against banks, insurers, and financial service providers effectively. The FSO’s performance will be evaluated after two years.
Stand-by Loan for Disaster Recovery and Rehabilitation – Phase 2:
Cabinet endorsed an agreement with Japan for a five billion Japanese Yen (FJ$72 million) Stand-by Loan through JICA, aimed at promoting economic stability and disaster management efforts.
Fiji’s Participation in the Pacific Island Network of Competition, Consumer and Economic Regulators:
Cabinet approved Fiji’s participation in the Pacific Island Network of Competition, Consumer and Economic Regulators (PINCCER), with the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) representing Fiji. The inaugural PINCCER conference is set for July 22 in Denarau, Nadi.
Fiji to Co-Host Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum:
Cabinet approved an MOU with the US Department of Defense (US INDOPACOM) for co-hosting the annual Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24), scheduled in Natadola from August 6-9. This forum brings together military and civilian agencies to discuss environmental responsibilities.
Amendment to the MOU with Australia on Defence Facilities and Infrastructure Activities:
Cabinet approved an amendment to the existing MOU with Australia to support upgrades at the Stanley Brown Naval Base and Fiji Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC) in Lami, including critical defence components.
MOU between Fiji and Australia on a Defence Pacific Air Programme:
Cabinet endorsed the Defence Pacific Air Programme MOU (DPAP MOU) with Australia, governing the operation of C27J aircraft in Fiji for humanitarian, transport, and aerial surveillance missions.
Review of the 2018–2022 National Employment Policy:
Cabinet approved reviewing the National Employment Policy to support economic diversification and environmental sustainability, addressing climate change, disaster management, and resilience with assistance from the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
NDMO Partnership with Japan for Quasi-Zenith Satellite System:
Cabinet endorsed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Japan for using the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) in Fiji. This system provides early warnings during earthquakes or tsunamis, with the MOC expected to be signed during the PALM conference in Japan from July 16-19.