Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua emphasized the importance of stronger economic and trade cooperation at the Fiji-Australia and Australia Business Councils Joint Forum.
Over three days, the Forum provided a platform for government officials, members of the Fiji-Australia and Australia-Fiji Business Councils, business owners, investors, and trade officials to discuss ways to enhance collaboration regarding trade, tourism, and business relations between the two countries.
Qereqeretabua described these Forums as crucial for promoting economic cooperation through the development of innovative strategies and solutions. She recognized Australia as Fiji’s largest source of tourism and trade partner, highlighting its role as a diverse market for exports and remittances with a substantial investor presence.
She noted that Fiji’s strategic location in the Pacific allows greater access to emerging trade markets, particularly for agricultural exports including taro, ginger, kava, mahogany, and coconut oil.
From August 2023 to January this year, Fiji saw 15 investment projects from Australia primarily in sectors such as Information and Communications Technology (ICT), renewable energy, and tourism, demonstrating the strengthening economic ties between the nations.
Qereqeretabua urged delegates to work together on innovative approaches to navigate new business challenges and seize dynamic economic recovery opportunities.
She expressed gratitude to the Fiji-Australia and Australia Business Councils for organizing the Forum, aiming to strengthen economic and trade relations.
The Forum also reviewed the practical implementation of the renewed Vuvale Partnership, signed by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australian Prime Minister Hon. Anthony Albanese last October. This partnership emphasizes Fiji’s foreign policy goals of sovereignty, security, and prosperity while encouraging cooperation in infrastructure, economic development, climate resilience, and cultural exchange.
The event represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance Fiji-Australia bilateral relations and build stronger ties through the renewed Vuvale Partnership.