Fijian diplomat and Counsellor at the High Commission of the Republic of Fiji in Canberra, Australia Ms. Salote Tagivakatini recently graduated with Distinction from Deakin University with a Master of Defence and Strategic Studies, she was admitted as a Fellow of the Australian War College and also awarded The Commander Australian Defence College Award and Geddes Gavel.
The award is a first for Fiji and it is awarded to the best International student who contributed and demonstrated the greatest understanding of political, diplomatic, military, cultural and economic factors that influence regional relationships and decision making.
Reflecting on her journey through this achievement Counsellor Tagivakatini thanked God for HIS blessings and acknowledged the Prime Minister and the Minister for Foreign Affairs Honorable Josaia Bainimarama and Honorable Minister for Defence Inia Seruiratu, for the confidence bestowed upon her to represent the civil service and Fijian people at the prestigious Australian War College.
“The hospitality of the Australian Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell and Secretary Defence Greg Moriarty, Australian Course members and the War College was exceptional and demonstrates the sincerity, depth and remarkable gains of our defence diplomacy and relationships. Our foreign services can learn a lot from our defence counterparts.
“The opportunity to learn, build people to people links and relationships and contribute to greater awareness of our unique culture, perspectives, vulnerabilities and strengths was a phenomenal experience and a huge blessing. We have much to learn and share.”
Counselor Tagivakatini extended her appreciation to the Permanent Secretary Mr. Yogesh Karan and Deputy Secretary Mr. Esala Nayasi and colleagues at MFA and her family for their support.
Fiji’s High Commissioner to Australia His Excellency Mr. David Kolitagane represented Fiji at the joint graduation ceremony for the Australian Staff and Command College and the DSSC.
He said, “It was a very proud moment for any Fijian in the auditorium and a special one for me as High Commissioner to witness our RFMF officers and my Deputy, Ms. Tagivakatini represented Fiji superbly and made Fiji proud through their outstanding achievements. I thank them and especially their families here with us and in Fiji for all the sacrifice and hard work. Our Vuvale partnership and especially our Defence relations continues to mature and strengthen and Australia and Fiji have a very bright future.”
Fiji’s representatives at the DSSC 2022 were Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander Saula Tuilevuka and Ms. Salote Tagivakatini.
