A delegation from the Indonesian Parliament recently met with Fiji’s Speaker of Parliament, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, and members of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs to enhance bilateral relations. The visit, noted by the Indonesian Embassy in Suva, followed a previous meeting between parliamentarians from both countries during the second Indonesia-Pacific Parliamentary Partnership (IPPP) held in July in Indonesia.
The embassy stated that the meeting in Jakarta involved representatives from twelve Pacific island nations, focusing on fostering mutual understanding, respect, and tangible cooperation in the Pacific region. Ratu Naiqama praised Indonesia for successfully hosting the IPPP, which he had attended as head of the Fijian delegation.
Mohammad Muraz, head of the Indonesian parliamentary delegation, emphasized the importance of strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation across various sectors as a foundation for deeper ties. He expressed hope for discussing concrete actions to be taken between Fiji and Indonesia.
Muraz acknowledged the shared interests of both nations in the Pacific Ocean, highlighting Indonesia’s appreciation for the “Ocean of Peace” vision presented by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. He indicated a desire to learn more about this vision and its relevance to Indonesia’s role in the Pacific.
The Indonesian delegation was joined by their ambassador to Fiji, Dupito Simamora, and participated in a parliamentary session during their visit.