In a significant development for U.S.-Fiji relations, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka met with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, marking the first visit by a high-ranking official from the U.S. Department of Defense to Fiji. During their meeting in Nadi, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed appreciation for the visit, highlighting its importance in enhancing defense cooperation between the two nations.
The Prime Minister reiterated Fiji’s dedication to strengthening ties with the U.S. and continuing collaboration, particularly in light of the incoming Trump Administration. He emphasized the ongoing partnership and cooperation between Fiji and the U.S., which was solidified with the recent signing of an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) aimed at improving defense logistics and emergency response capabilities.
Secretary Austin, honoring the significant occasion, noted, “I’m very proud to be the first U.S. Secretary of Defense ever to visit Fiji. It’s an honor to be here. Our relationship is rooted in common values – and our shared vision for a free and open region.” He emphasized the Indo-Pacific as a top priority and acknowledged that strengthening partnerships with Fiji and other Pacific nations is essential for maintaining regional stability.
Key outcomes from this bilateral dialogue include:
– The initiation of negotiations with Fiji on a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), which facilitates deeper cooperation with Pacific Island nations.
– The signing of the ACSA, enabling better logistics cooperation for emergencies and efficient transfers of supplies.
– A commitment to provide $4.9 million in new U.S. security assistance to support Fiji’s military modernization efforts, pending congressional approval.
These initiatives build upon recent agreements, including the Fiji-U.S. Air Transport Agreement and the establishment of the USAID Pacific Regional Office in Fiji, demonstrating a renewed focus on regional engagement and cooperation.
Secretary Austin’s visit to not only Fiji but also Australia, the Philippines, and Laos underscores a broader U.S. strategy to enhance alliances in the Indo-Pacific, reaffirming the commitment to a secure and open region.
This development signifies a hopeful pathway toward increased collaboration and support, benefiting not only Fiji but also contributing to the stability and security of the broader Pacific region.
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