The governments of Japan and Fiji have officially signed an Exchange of Notes and a Grant Agreement for a project designed to enhance aviation safety facilities, which is valued at around FJ$19 million or 1.29 billion Japanese Yen.
The signing ceremony took place this morning at the Office of the Prime Minister, with Fiji’s Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sitiveni Rabuka, and the Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, H.E. Rokuichiro Michii, in attendance.
The primary goal of the initiative is to bolster the safety of aircraft operations in Fiji and to enhance the capacity of transport infrastructure for sustainable growth. The project will involve the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) providing essential equipment and technical support, which includes two VHF Omnidirectional Radio Beacons or Distance Measuring Equipment (VOR/DME), five airport fire engines, and three rescue boats.
Implementation of this project is set to take place at key airport facilities, including Nadi International Airport, Nausori Airport, and airports in Labasa, Savusavu, and Matei.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Rabuka expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for their invaluable assistance, which will significantly enhance aviation safety and services in Fiji. He noted that this contribution aligns with Fiji’s ambition to be a regional hub, especially following the recent opening of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Pacific liaison office in Nadi, highlighting ICAO’s trust in Fiji’s aviation sector.
Ambassador Michii stated that the project not only aims to advance Fiji’s aviation sector but also to strengthen the friendship between Japan and Fiji. He acknowledged Prime Minister Rabuka’s central role in elevating cooperation between the two nations and emphasized that Fiji’s unique geographical position enhances its connectivity within the Pacific region.
Ambassador Michii added that today’s signing marks the second of five agreements planned for this month, collectively valued at about FJ$133 million. He reiterated Japan’s ongoing support for Fiji’s developmental goals as outlined in the National Development Plan 2025-2029, which was launched by the Coalition Government yesterday.