Fiji and New Zealand have reiterated their commitment to strengthening their bilateral partnership during a recent round of High-Level Consultations held in Suva. The meeting, chaired by New Zealand’s Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Bede Corry, and Fiji’s Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Raijeli Taga, focused on enhancing the Duavata Partnership, a foundational framework guiding relations between the two nations.
Corry emphasized the significance of the partnership, highlighting shared priorities that encompass economic prosperity, social well-being, democratic governance, security enhancement, and climate change responses, which are critical in the current global landscape. “Our high-level consultations today have confirmed just how many shared priorities we have,” he stated, reinforcing the collective goals both nations aim to pursue.
Dr. Taga echoed Corry’s sentiments, affirming the partnership’s continuing role in addressing mutual objectives. The refreshed Duavata Partnership is expected to align with regional initiatives under the Blue Pacific strategy, focusing on sustainable development, climate resilience, and inclusive growth across the Pacific region.
This consultation comes at a time when both countries are proactively exploring ways to foster closer ties. Previous engagements, including meetings between Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and New Zealand officials, have set ambitious targets such as elevating two-way trade to $2 billion by 2030. Simplified visa processes for Fijians were also discussed, aimed at facilitating easier movement between the nations and strengthening people-to-people connections.
Overall, the commitment expressed during these consultations signals a hopeful outlook for the future, as both nations work collaboratively to navigate the challenges posed by global uncertainties. Their ongoing partnership not only enhances bilateral relations but also fosters a stable and prosperous Pacific community, underscoring the mutual respect and collaboration at the heart of their relationship.
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