Fiji has confirmed its intention to establish an embassy in Israel, with the location set for Jerusalem. This decision is set to be discussed in the upcoming Coalition Cabinet meeting in Suva.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka conveyed this commitment during a bilateral meeting with Israel’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Sa’ar Gideon Moshe, at the 61st session of the Munich Security Conference, which commenced on February 14, 2025, in Germany. The dialogue between the leaders centered on enhancing cooperation across several sectors, including agriculture, security, peacekeeping, and initiatives addressing climate change. Rabuka expressed appreciation for the ongoing support that Israel has provided over the years.
Fiji and Israel have enjoyed diplomatic relations since 1970, with their collaboration encompassing vital areas such as security and climate change. Notably, Israel’s technology has been instrumental in Fiji’s efforts to tackle climate change challenges.
During their discussions, Minister Moshe invited Prime Minister Rabuka to visit Israel, reinforcing the commitment to strengthen diplomatic ties. Additionally, he expressed Israel’s willingness to assist Fiji in its embassy establishment plans.
In response to a proposal from Prime Minister Rabuka, Minister Moshe also offered Israel’s support for providing patrol boats to bolster Fiji’s fight against drug trafficking; the last such assistance from Israel occurred in 1987 when four Dabur-class patrol boats were delivered to the Fijian Navy.
Both leaders recognized the vast opportunities for collaboration and expressed a positive outlook on enhancing their bilateral relationship in the future.
This development signifies a strengthening of ties between the two nations, emphasizing mutual interests and cooperation, particularly in areas essential for Fiji’s national security and environmental sustainability.
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