Fiji has launched its first Foreign Policy White Paper, emphasizing the importance of strengthening multilateral and bilateral relations with Pacific and international partners as a key objective for promoting development assistance. This was highlighted by Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, during a farewell meeting with Gaël Sánchez Cano, the Chargé d’affaires at the Embassy of Spain in Fiji, who is concluding his diplomatic term.
Qereqeretabua reiterated Fiji’s stance outlined in the Foreign Policy White Paper and the “Ocean of Peace” concept, which is championed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. She emphasized Fiji’s commitment to collaborating with development partners in the Pacific to achieve shared goals of economic prosperity, peace, security, and sustainable development.
In this context, Qereqeretabua welcomed talks aimed at enhancing cooperation on mutual interests between Fiji and Spain. She expressed gratitude to Cano for his service to Fiji and wished him success in his future endeavors.
Cano praised Prime Minister Rabuka for the Ocean of Peace initiative and reaffirmed Spain’s support for it. He also acknowledged the significance of Fiji’s Foreign Policy White Paper, highlighting the necessity of a clear and effective framework to advance mutual priorities and goals.