Seventeen Japanese investors have gathered in Fiji for the Pacific and Japan Regional Investment Seminar held at the Pacific Island Forum Secretariat in Suva.
Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs, and Communications, stated that the seminar showcases opportunities and fosters collaboration aimed at regional growth. “The objective of the seminar is to enhance Japan’s cooperation with Forum Island countries, leading to tangible projects that could initiate as a result of this meeting,” Ali remarked.
Japanese Ambassador to Fiji Rokuichiro Michii emphasized the shared vision and commitment of Japan and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) to achieve environmentally sustainable and resilient economic growth that would enhance the social and economic well-being of Pacific people. “This vision was jointly reaffirmed by the leaders of the Pacific Island Countries and Japan during the PALM 10 held in Japan in July,” he noted.
Ambassador Michii added that this strong commitment from leaders has laid the groundwork for both multilateral and bilateral cooperation between Japan and its Pacific partners.
The Trade Seminar aims to enhance regional cooperation and integration through trade, investment, and tourism while promoting local industries like agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. Michii pointed out that while Japanese companies bring advanced technological solutions and have excellent business prospects in the Pacific, building a network with local governments and private sectors can be difficult.
“This seminar serves as a platform to develop these networks, providing a venue for the private sector in the Pacific to experience Japanese technologies firsthand and understand how they can address various socio-economic challenges faced by the region,” he added.
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