Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka unveiled Fiji’s inaugural Foreign Policy White Paper 2024 yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the enhancement of Fiji’s foreign services.
During the launch, Rabuka emphasized that this initiative is the first of its kind for the country. The Foreign Policy White Paper delineates Fiji’s foreign policy priorities and provides a strategic direction for the government’s international engagements over the coming decade.
The Prime Minister expressed that the Foreign Policy is a commitment from the government to maintain Fiji’s position within the global community, ensuring a prosperous and secure future for all Fijians. He pointed out that the policy outlines a pathway to address the complex challenges faced by the nation in foreign affairs, serving as a definitive declaration of the government’s position and Fiji’s role on the world stage.
Rabuka noted that the Foreign Policy reinforces Fiji’s status as a central hub in the Pacific region. The foundational approach is comprehensive and incorporates both domestic and external policies, emphasizing that the nation’s security and prosperity are contingent upon a transparent understanding of its national interests and values, as well as the best ways to promote them.
Additionally, the Prime Minister highlighted that Fiji’s Foreign Policy complements the National Development Plan and the proposed response to the National Security and Defence Review, forming the basis of the government’s strategy to promote Fiji’s strategic and economic interests while enhancing social cohesion.
“The three interconnected pillars of Fiji’s foreign policy are sovereignty, security, and prosperity,” he stated.
Rabuka expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for leading a collaborative process involving various ministries and agencies, including those outside the public sector.
He concluded by asserting that Fiji’s Foreign Policy White Paper is more than a simple document; it serves as a roadmap aimed at ensuring that future generations will inherit a secure, prosperous, and globally respected nation.