Fiji and the United Kingdom (UK) relations continues to strengthen in important areas of development such as trade and economy, defence and security, veteran affairs, climate change and oceans.
This was discussed during an introductory call received by the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Lesikimacuata Korovavala from the British High Commissioner to Fiji, Dr. Brian Jones.
The meeting highlighted prospects for stronger cooperation particularly with the first official visit of UK’s Minister of State for the Armed Forces, The Rt Honourable James Heappey MP, to Fiji this week.
The first of such ministerial visit from UK to the Pacific symbolizes UK’s strong commitment to enhance partnership with Fiji and the region.
Fiji welcomes UK’s commitment to strengthen cooperation particularly by providing opportunities for more young Fijians to join the British Armed Forces.
Currently over 1500 Fijians are serving in the British Armed Forces and their continued contributions to Fiji’s economy, through remittances, is highly appreciated and acknowledged.
UK’s also looks forward to providing Chevening scholarships with applications opening next month and a number of such scholarships and professional training programs will also be available for civil servants in Fiji and the region.
UK is determined to further support Fiji’s development needs and priorities through various initiatives aimed at assisting communities in Fiji.
The British High Commission in Fiji is working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to advance the economic cooperation between the two nations.
