Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, engaged in a significant meeting with UNFPA Regional Director, Pio Smith, during the High-Level Regional Consultation on Financing for Development in Asia and the Pacific, which took place in Bangkok.
Professor Prasad expressed gratitude to UNFPA for its assistance in formulating Fiji’s first National Population Policy. This policy is designed to address the challenges of demographic changes and ensure that population dynamics are integrated with the nation’s development aspirations.
The introduction of this policy is expected to be instrumental in guiding Fiji’s future growth and aligning resources to the needs of its population. Notably, UNFPA looks forward to Fiji’s involvement in the upcoming 58th session of the Commission on Population and Development (CPD), scheduled for April 2025.
This collaboration reflects a commitment to strategic planning and sustainable development. The implementation of a National Population Policy positions Fiji to better respond to the evolving needs of its citizens while fostering a prosperous future.
In summary, the meeting signifies a proactive approach in managing demographic challenges and enhancing development frameworks in Fiji, showcasing the importance of international partnerships in addressing local issues.