Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka has reaffirmed Fiji’s dedication to enhancing the resilience of its tourism sector, particularly in light of the nation’s susceptibility to natural disasters. Addressing attendees at the Tourism Resilience Summit, Gavoka urged stakeholders to work together creatively in tackling the challenges posed by natural disasters, pandemics, and other disruptions.
He emphasized the wisdom of learning from past crises, such as SARS, the Global Financial Crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting tourism’s remarkable ability to recover. “We have used these crises as an opportunity to rebuild stronger,” he noted, reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the Fijian economy.
The Deputy Prime Minister outlined a vision for the sector that prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience while also focusing on diversifying tourism offerings and bolstering disaster preparedness. “We’re using that recovery to build resilience,” he added, explaining the establishment of a stronger and more diverse economic framework alongside sustainable public-private partnerships.
The meeting underlined the critical need for proactive measures to mitigate the consequences of crises caused by natural hazards. Participants acknowledged that not only is it essential to absorb and recover from these impacts, but it is also necessary to adapt and transform to better prepare for future challenges.
In conjunction with these discussions, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Fiji, Filimone Waqabaca, joined Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka on a diplomatic trip to Japan.
This initiative reflects Fiji’s proactive stance on developing a robust tourism industry that can withstand the inevitable challenges posed by an unpredictable climate. It is hopeful to see such commitment to sustainability and resilience as this may lead to a more secure economic future for Fiji while protecting its unique natural and cultural heritage.
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