A group of four staff members from the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs has successfully completed the third cohort of the Pacific Diplomatic Training Programme, a five-week initiative designed to cultivate future diplomats throughout the Pacific region. Sponsored by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, under the Manaaki Scholarships scheme, the program is facilitated by Education New Zealand.
The graduates—Rhoda Banner, Edwin Naidu, Vilimaina Nakalevu, and Luke Letewale—exhibited commendable dedication throughout this intensive training. The first part of the program occurred in Wellington, New Zealand, from November 18 to December 6, 2024, followed by two additional weeks of training in Suva, Fiji, and Apia, Samoa, from March 10 to March 21, 2025.
This milestone highlights the collaborative relationship between New Zealand and Fiji, with the Fiji Ministry expressing sincere thanks to NZMFAT and the High Commission in Suva for their essential support. The focus of the training was on developing key diplomatic skills and fostering a robust network of diplomatic professionals across the Blue Pacific region. Such networking is crucial for addressing foreign policy challenges effectively.
The ongoing support from New Zealand to Fiji and the broader Pacific region was emphasized during a recent event at the New Zealand High Commission in Suva, which celebrated and recognized the upcoming diplomatic leaders from the Pacific. This initiative showcases a dedication to enhancing diplomatic capacity and building relationships that are vital for regional cooperation.
The program not only imparts essential skills to its participants but also emphasizes the importance of diplomacy in tackling common challenges, promoting a positive outlook for the future of Pacific diplomacy.
The graduation of these diplomats signals a hopeful enhancement of partnerships and collaborative efforts that can lead to significant regional diplomacy and development.
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