Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has underscored the significance of Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua’s upcoming 42-day tour to visit Fijian troops stationed in various locations, including the Golan Heights, Jerusalem, Tiberias, and the Sinai. During a time of heightened tensions and violence in the Middle East, Rabuka emphasized the need to uphold the morale of the servicemen and women deployed abroad.
Minister Tikoduadua, addressing concerns regarding the nature of the trip, reaffirmed that it is not a vacation but a vital mission aimed at ensuring the welfare of Fijian soldiers. He stated, “I will not pick and choose which deployments are worth the airfare,” highlighting his commitment to support all troops. The Minister plans to engage directly with military personnel, assess their living conditions, and hear their concerns, underscoring the importance of personal interactions over virtual communication.
The trip aligns with Fiji’s long-standing dedication to international peacekeeping efforts, and Tikoduadua’s itinerary includes crucial participation in the 2025 Ministerial Peacekeeping Meeting in Berlin and discussions in Washington, D.C. focused on enhancing defense and security cooperation.
Reflecting on his own experience as a former peacekeeper, Tikoduadua reinforced the importance of recognizing the contributions of Fijian forces to global stability. He aims to bring back valuable insights and feedback from the soldiers to ensure they feel valued and supported by their government.
As Fiji continues to advocate for peace on the international stage, this mission is viewed as an essential step in fostering robust connections with allies and reinforcing the country’s role in global peacekeeping initiatives. Tikoduadua is set to return on May 25, and his commitment to visiting the troops speaks volumes about the support for Fiji’s military personnel who bravely serve in challenging environments.
Overall, the trip encapsulates an optimistic vision for continued partnerships in peacekeeping and highlights a compassionate leadership approach aimed at ensuring that the sacrifices of every soldier are recognized.
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