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Fiji and the United Kingdom (UK) have reaffirmed strong commitment to enhance bilateral relations and development cooperation in climate change, defence and security, economic prosperity, regional peace and solidarity. This was conveyed during an introductory courtesy call received by the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Raijeli Taga, from the British High Commissioner to Fiji, Dr. Brian Jones.
The meeting focused on a range of issues of international importance where Fiji and the UK’s views aligned as Commonwealth partners, and democratic United Nations (UN) Member states with an interest and commitment to supporting global peacekeeping efforts and international law.
The discussions highlighted Fiji and the UK’s joint efforts to expand support to Fijians serving in the British Army, with appreciation expressed for the Fijian soldiers for their dedication and service to the British Army. The UK is determined to further support Fiji in the professional capacity building programs which includes the coordinated effort with Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in training the Fijian diplomats on policy skills, diplomatic communication and leadership.
In her remarks, Dr. Taga conveyed sincere gratitude to the UK Government for their continued partnership with Fiji through initiatives aimed at supporting Fiji’s development goals. She reasserted Fiji’s continued commitment to further elevate the cooperation levels, through close collaboration between Fiji MFA, the British High Commission and Fiji’s High Commission in the United Kingdom.
Dr. Jones congratulated Dr. Taga on her new appointment and wished her well. He also acknowledged Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent contributions at the Munich Security Conference, noting his engagement with senior European leaders on shared security interests and Fiji’s regional and global leadership through the Ocean of Peace Concept. The UK pledged its support for Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission and outlined the legal and communications support they would provide.
The discussions also highlighted the UK’s support for Fiji’s efforts in combating illegal drug abuse. The UK is committed to support the Fiji Police Force (FPF) and the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), in sharing intelligence, training and support to identify, target and stop illegal drugs and those who traffic them internationally and locally. In line with these efforts, both the countries emphasised on the need for a united approach in the fight against drug abuse and building generational resilience.
Further, Dr. Jones reiterated the UK’s ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), focus on limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees and supporting Fiji and the broader Pacific region in it’s existential fight against climate change. This alliance stood strong in the shared commitment with the International Maritime Organization for the reduction of emissions from shipping and speeding up climate finance to the region.
Fiji and the UK share warm relations and collaboration with Fijian diaspora living in the UK and Fijian soldiers serving in the British Army, and contributing significantly towards the development of both the nations.
