Fiji’s Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, is set to embark on an official overseas mission from April 14 to May 25, 2025. This tour will include stops in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States, with a focus on reaffirming Fiji’s dedication to international peace and security.
According to a statement from the Ministry, Tikoduadua’s mission aims to honor the brave men and women of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) currently engaged in peacekeeping deployments. His itinerary begins with visits to Fijian contingents stationed with the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights and the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) in Jerusalem and Tiberias.
While in these locations, Tikoduadua is expected to directly engage with Fijian troops, receive operational briefings, and express the government’s deep gratitude for their commitment and sacrifices.
The Minister’s travels will then take him to the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) Headquarters in Sharm-El-Sheikh, followed by meetings in Rome with Fijian personnel and senior mission leadership, including the Director General of the MFO.
Notably, Tikoduadua will attend the 2025 Ministerial Peacekeeping Meeting in Berlin, where he is scheduled to meet with high-ranking officials from the United Nations and defense counterparts from various nations, including Germany, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, India, and the Republic of Korea. His discussions in Washington D.C. will focus on enhancing defense and security cooperation, as well as advancing support for Fiji’s veterans and necessary defense reforms.
This mission underscores Fiji’s ongoing commitment to the global stage as a peacekeeping nation and enhances the visibility of the contributions made by Fijian servicemen and women. Their service not only reflects national values such as discipline, courage, and service but also contributes significantly to efforts of maintaining peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.
Pio Tikoduadua is anticipated to return to Fiji on May 25, and his journey is seen as a proactive approach to fortifying international partnerships in peacekeeping efforts, highlighting a promise of dedication to the safety and wellbeing of Fiji’s military personnel abroad.
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