PM Bainimarama’s Opening Remarks at the Virtual SIDs Solutions Forum
30/08/2021
Prime Minister Bainimarama Receives a Courtesy Call From The SG of the Pacific Islands Forum
01/09/2021Published On: 01/09/2021
In commemorating 50 years of diplomatic relations, Fiji and Korea have renewed their commitment to the partnership characterised by mutual understanding and respect for each other’s sovereignty, common development and shared prosperity.
This was articulated at today’s courtesy call received by the Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama from the Korean Ambassador to Fiji, His Excellency, Mr. Park Young-kyu.
Ambassador Park presented Prime Minister Bainimarama with a token of appreciation and letter of acknowledgement conveyed from President Moon Jae-in of the Republic of Korea.
This has been conveyed in recognition of Prime Minister Bainimarama’s participation at the P4G Summit, ‘Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030”, held earlier in May this year.
Prime Minister Bainimarama thanked President Moon Jae-in and the Government of Korea for the kind gesture and friendship. He said Fiji is grateful to Korea for the opportunity to participate at the P4G Summit which has been an ideal platform to reflect on the current areas of collaboration between Korea and Fiji, whilst elaborating on the potential opportunities for enhanced engagements.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Bainimarama said “this year marks an important milestone in our two nations’ friendship and cooperation as we commemorate 50 years of diplomatic relations.”
Prime Minister Bainimarama extended the Fijian Government’s appreciation to President Moon Jae-in and the Government of Korea for its unwavering support to Fiji and the region.
He commended the Korean Government for its swift assistance through the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to aid in Fiji’s response to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over the years, Korea has supported Fiji through the provision of socioeconomic development projects, technical experts and training programs, educational and cultural exchange programs to name a few.
Additionally, Korea has assisted Fiji through extended financing arrangements, through the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI); and recently the Framework Agreement for Grant Aid signed in July this year for the establishment of the KOICA Pacific Office in Fiji and KOICA’s aid strategy for the Pacific Region.
Prime Minister Bainimarama further stated that there is potential for the two nations to enhance collaboration at all levels of engagement. He also acknowledged Korea’s ongoing initiatives in the areas of climate change and oceans conservation.
In response, Ambassador Park reaffirmed his Government’s support to Fiji and the region through enhanced engagements in areas of mutual interests and priorities.
