Fiji is set to receive increased support from Japan through a newly established partnership between the two nations.
This assistance will include the provision of fire trucks for local airports and the installation of an aircraft surveillance system at Nadi International Airport to enhance aviation safety in Fiji.
This announcement was made by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, highlighting decisions taken by the Cabinet in its meetings on July 11, 12, and 15.
Cabinet Decisions:
Grant Funding for Fiji Airports
The Cabinet has approved an exchange of notes with the government of Japan and a Grant Funding Agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This agreement includes grant funding of 1.29 billion Yen (FJ$15 million) for Airports Fiji Pte Limited. Under this agreement, JICA will:
– Procure and install aircraft surveillance systems at Nadi International Airport and Labasa Airport.
– Procure and deliver five fire trucks for Nausori, Labasa, Savusavu, and Matei airports.
– Procure and deliver three rescue boats for Nadi International Airport.
– Provide consultancy services for improving aviation safety.
MOU with International Peace Institute
The Cabinet has endorsed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government and the International Peace Institute (IPI). This MOU is aimed at enhancing Fiji’s preparations for COP29 through capacity-building in negotiations. IPI is a non-profit think tank closely associated with the United Nations, focusing on peace and security issues, and supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on climate change matters.
Financial Services Ombudsman
The Cabinet has endorsed the establishment of a Financial Services Ombudsman (FSO) within the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF). The FSO is expected to improve the complaints management process and will resolve complaints from consumers against banks, insurers, and other financial service providers. The effectiveness of the FSO will be reviewed in two years.
Stand-by Loan for Disaster Recovery and Rehabilitation-Phase 2
The Cabinet has endorsed an exchange of notes and a record of discussion with Japan for the provision of a five billion Japanese Yen (FJ$72 million) Stand-by Loan for Disaster Recovery and Rehabilitation – Phase 2 through JICA, aimed at promoting economic stability and development, particularly in enhancing disaster risk management.
Fiji’s Participation in the Pacific Island Network of Competition, Consumer, and Economic Regulators
The Cabinet has endorsed Fiji’s participation in the Pacific Island Network of Competition, Consumer and Economic Regulators (PINCCER) and has designated the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) as Fiji’s representative for PINCCER matters. The inaugural PINCCER conference is scheduled for July 22 at the Sofitel Resort and Spa in Denarau, Nadi.
Fiji to Co-Host Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum
The Cabinet approved an MOU with the US Department of Defense (US INDOPACOM) to formalize the annual Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24) co-hosting arrangements. IPESF 24 will be held in Natadola from August 6-9 and will bring together Indo-Pacific militaries and civilian agencies to discuss and advance shared environmental responsibilities.
Amendment to MOU between Australia and Fiji on Defence Facilities and Infrastructure Activities
The Cabinet has approved an amendment to the existing MOU between Australia and Fiji concerning Defence Facilities and Infrastructure Activities. This MOU supports upgrades at the Stanley Brown Naval Base and the Fiji Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC) in Lami, which are crucial for Fiji’s defense operations.
MOU between Fiji and Australia on a Defence Pacific Air Programme
The Cabinet endorsed the Defence Pacific Air Programme MOU between Fiji and Australia. This MOU provides governance for the operation of the C27J aircraft in Fiji, which Australia offered for humanitarian assistance, air transport, and aerial surveillance missions.
Review of the 2018–2022 National Employment Policy
The Cabinet approved a review of the National Employment Policy (NEP 2018) to focus on economic diversification and environmental sustainability to address climate change, disaster management, and resilience, with technical assistance from the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
NDMO Partnership with Japan, Quasi-Zenith Satellite System
The Cabinet endorsed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Japan for the use of the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) in Fiji. This satellite positioning system provides early warnings during earthquakes or tsunamis. The agreement is expected to be signed during the PALM conference in Japan from July 16-19.