The cordial relations between #Fiji and #France provides enormous opportunities to advance cooperation in a wide range of areas such as economic growth, defence and security, climate change and oceans, trade and tourism and sports development.
This was elaborated today at an introductory call paid to the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Lesikimacuata Korovavala from the French Ambassador to Fiji Mr Francois-Xavier Leger.
The meeting outlined current areas of cooperation with scope for greater partnership in the build up to 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) and the United Nations (UN) Ocean Summit 2025.
Dr. Korovavala thanked France for its contributions to Fiji over the years and also expressed Fiji’s desire to further strengthen cooperation in fields of economic, social and political spheres.
He welcomed France’s commitment to collaborate closely with Fiji in the lead up to 2023 Rugby World Cup and the UN Oceans Summit 2025, among the major global events hosted by France.
On the same note, he acknowledged the Fijian diaspora and Fijian sports players in France who contribute significantly to Fiji’s economy through remittances.
Dr. Korovavala expressed Fiji’s desire to upgrade cooperation with France in multifaceted areas to optimize socioeconomic prosperity and wellbeing of both the nations and its peoples.
In response, Ambassador Leger congratulated Dr. Korovavala on his new appointment and wished him well for his tenure ahead.
“During our meeting, we discussed the strong friendship between our two countries, which will soon again be celebrated, on July 14th during Bastille Day (the French national day).
“France being the closest neighbour of Fiji, thanks to Wallis and Futuna, both countries are facing the same challenges in the South Pacific.
“France intends to develop further its partnerships with Pacific Islands Countries including Fiji,” Ambassador Leger said.
He expressed France’s commitment to deepen the levels of engagements with Fiji for the upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup held from September to October this year.
France is excited to welcome Flying Fijians and Fijian fans for the 2023 Rugby World Cup!
