The Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, traveled to Australia on Thursday to officially accept the new Guardian-class patrol boat, RFNS Timo, which will replace the decommissioned $18 million Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) vessel, RFNS Puamau. The RFNS Puamau unfortunately ran aground on Fulaga Reef in Lau on June 10 during a routine voyage, just a month after it was donated to Fiji by the Australian government.
Mr. Tikoduadua expressed that the new patrol boat enhances Fiji’s maritime capabilities, enabling the country to better protect its waters, conserve its natural resources, and maintain regional security. He highlighted that this addition underscores the strong partnership and mutual commitment between Fiji and Australia.
This development is a significant step forward for Fiji’s maritime operations and reflects a positive trajectory in international cooperation. It demonstrates how nations can come together to bolster each other’s security efforts, paving the way for a safer and more sustainable marine environment for the region.
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