The governments of Japan and Fiji have formalized a partnership through the signing of an Exchange of Notes and Grant Agreement for a project aimed at enhancing aviation safety facilities, valued at around FJ$19 million or 1.29 billion Japanese Yen.
The ceremony took place this morning at the Office of the Prime Minister, led by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Japanese Ambassador to Fiji H.E. Rokuichiro Michii.
The primary goal of this initiative is to bolster the safety of aircraft operations in Fiji, while also contributing to the improvement of transport infrastructure and supporting sustainable growth. The project will provide equipment and technical support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which includes two VHF Omnidirectional Radio Beacons, five Airport Fire Engines, and three Rescue Boats.
Implementation will occur across major airport facilities such as Nadi International Airport, Nausori Airport, Labasa, Savusavu, and Matei Airports.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed gratitude to Japan for its substantial assistance, which is expected to significantly enhance aviation safety and services in Fiji. He noted that this contribution is timely, especially following the opening of the new International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Pacific liaison office in Nadi last month, highlighting ICAO’s confidence in Fiji’s aviation sector.
Ambassador Michii remarked that this project not only elevates the aviation sector in Fiji but also strengthens the bonds between the governments and people of Japan and Fiji, with Prime Minister Rabuka playing a central role in this enhanced cooperation. He emphasized that Fiji’s strategic location makes it an essential hub for regional connectivity in the Pacific.
This initiative represents a crucial investment in regional aviation connectivity, where appropriate technology and equipment play a vital role. Ambassador Michii added that the signing of today’s Exchange of Notes is part of a series of five agreements to be formalized this month, totaling approximately FJ$133 million. He reiterated Japan’s ongoing commitment to supporting Fiji’s development goals as outlined in Fiji’s National Development Plan 2025-2029, unveiled by the Coalition Government yesterday.