Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka has reaffirmed Fiji’s dedication to enhancing the resilience of its tourism sector in the face of natural disasters. At the recent Tourism Resilience Summit, Gavoka urged stakeholders to work together and think creatively to address challenges such as natural disasters, pandemics, and other unexpected disruptions.
He highlighted that crises can serve as powerful catalysts for improvement and noted, “History shows us that tourism has the capacity to recover from hardships, from SARS to the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.” Gavoka emphasized that the tourism industry, which is pivotal to Fiji’s economy, is focused on rebuilding with an emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. This strategy includes diversifying tourism offerings and enhancing disaster preparedness.
Gavoka further explained that the recovery process is a chance to create a robust and varied economic foundation, foster sustainable partnerships between public and private sectors, and implement policies and initiatives geared towards long-term stability.
The Ministerial Meeting underscored the critical need for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of crises and natural disasters. It was also recognized that adapting and evolving in response to crises is essential for enhancing future preparedness.
Additionally, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Fiji, Filimone Waqabaca, joined the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism during their trip to Japan.
In summary, Fiji’s commitment to transforming its tourism sector into a more resilient and diverse entity reflects a hopeful outlook. By leveraging past experiences and fostering collaboration, the country aims to not only recover but to thrive in the face of future challenges. This proactive approach not only supports the economy but also sets a positive example for other nations vulnerable to similar natural threats.
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