PM Bainimarama Receives Courtesy Call from the New Ambassador of Brazil to Fiji and the Pacific

Prime Minister, Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, received a courtesy call from the new Non-resident Ambassador of Brazil to Fiji and the Pacific, His Excellency, Mauricio Lyrio, at the Office of the Prime Minister this morning.

Prime Minister Bainimarama congratulated Ambassador Lyrio on his new diplomatic appointment and assured him of the Fijian Government’s commitment to work closely with Brazil in strengthening the diplomatic relations, which were formally established in 2006.

He acknowledged Brazil’s humanitarian assistance to Fiji’s recovery efforts in the aftermath of natural disasters.

The ongoing negotiations between the two nations to enhance cooperation in the economic and social development sectors was also recognised. Both the nations have expressed interest to pursue prospects for greater partnership in sustainable, resilient development.

Discussions highlighted the enormous challenges imposed by the crisis in Ukraine and the response of the global community to support the UN Charter and rules-based order. The two nations have reaffirmed their commitment to work closely on addressing the subsequent economic impacts of the crisis in Ukraine.

The Prime Minister extended the Fijian Government’s best wishes to Ambassador Lyrio as he assumes his new role, with assurances that through the collaboration of Fiji and Brazil Missions in Canberra, relations would elevate to greater levels.

In his response, Ambassador Lyrio commended Prime Minister Bainimarama for his active leadership role at global and regional fronts on climate change.

“Our two nations have previously cooperated in the climate change negotiations in the multilateral fora, through Fiji’s active participation in the Rio plus-20 in Brazil in 2012. There are proposed climate initiatives through which Brazil will assist Fiji, by availing resources on technology, renewable energy, innovation, sharing the best practices that Brazil is commonly known for, and we look forward to further discussions with Fiji in this important area of collaboration.”

He said that work is in progress to negotiate a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in areas of education and health and renew the technical cooperation projects in common interest.

Ambassador Lyrio said, “Fiji’s progress into economic recovery is commendable, particularly through the immunisation program that made your country one of the most highly vaccinated nations in the world. We are open to further discussions on how best we can support Fiji’s national priorities.

“Brazil produces life-saving vaccines and we stand ready to support Fiji and the Pacific when the request is made. Brazil is also keen to look into partnerships for building a resilient health sector in the region.”

Ambassador Lyrio extended his appreciation to the Fijian Government for the kind hospitality accorded to him during his official visit to Fiji.

“Brazilians have in their hearts the momentous victory of the Fijian Rugby Team in the Rio Olympics, a proud achievement and our passion for sports and friendship connects our two countries.”