Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism, Viliame Gavoka, expressed the nation’s support for the Delhi Declaration, emphasizing a strong commitment to the principles of safety, security, and innovation within the aviation sector. Gavoka participated in the second Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in New Delhi, India, where he was appointed as the Deputy Chair.
The initial conference, held in 2018 in China, concluded with the Beijing Declaration, which laid the groundwork for collaborative efforts among states to address shared aviation challenges. This aligns with the Fijian government’s dedication to prioritizing aviation safety through continued efforts and cooperation.
Gavoka noted that the conference represented a collective commitment from the Asia-Pacific region to foster collaboration on a shared platform for regional aviation growth. The Delhi Declaration, which supersedes the Beijing Declaration, establishes a political framework for Asia and Pacific nations to enhance aviation safety and create a resilient and dynamic air transport system in the post-pandemic environment.
He highlighted that Fiji’s State Safety Programme is fundamental to its aviation safety initiatives, with the establishment of an independent accident investigation authority as a priority concern. The Deputy Prime Minister underscored the need for solutions through regional partnerships and targeted capacity-building measures to address existing challenges.
Fiji’s objective is clear: to respond effectively and autonomously to any aviation incidents. The conference concluded with renewed commitments to tackle various aviation issues, including safety, security, air navigation services, gender equality, environmental protection, civil aviation funding, and adherence to international air law treaties. The event convened around 250 representatives from 41 countries.