Fiji and Japan Pledge Stronger Cooperation

With Fiji and Japan commemorating their 51 years of diplomatic relations the two nations have pledged stronger collaboration in achieving sustainable and resilient recovery and socioeconomic development. This was conveyed through a video teleconference meeting between Japanese Prime Minister, His Excellency Mr. SUGA Yoshihide and Fijian Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama.

At the first bilateral meeting ahead of the 9th Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting (PALM 9), the two leaders discussed key areas of engagement and opportunities for strengthened collaboration at PALM 9.

Prime Minister Bainimarama conveyed his appreciation to Prime Minister Mr. SUGA Yoshihide for the excellent support rendered by the Government of Japan towards Fiji’s socio-economic development, response to COVID-19 and post disaster recovery efforts.

Reflecting on regional partnership, Prime Minister Bainimarama commended Japan’s assistance in the Region, whilst reaffirming Fiji’s commitment to work closely with Japan and the Pacific on areas of common interests.

While reiterating the importance of the PALM process, Prime Minister Bainimarama said he looks forward to joining the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) Leaders at PALM 9 which will be held virtually on Friday 2nd July 2021.

Prime Minister Bainimarama also conveyed his best wishes to Prime Minister Mr. SUGA Yoshihide and the people of Japan on their hosting of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Prime Minister Suga stated that Pacific Island countries such as Fiji are important partners to Japan. He also stated that he would like to continue working closely with Prime Minister Bainimarama toward a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”

Prime Minister Suga expressed his intention to continue supporting Fiji with measures against COVID-19, provide support for the recovery from the damage caused by cyclones, contribute to disaster prevention measures, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development.

The Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting (PALM) is a forum between the government of Japan and leaders in the Pacific Islands region. It was established by Japan in 1997 to facilitate and strengthen relations with the leaders of the nations of the Pacific Islands Forum.

Since its foundation, PALM has become an important avenue of dialogue between Japan and Pacific Island nations for important issues such as development aid, sustainable development, disaster risk resilience and climate change.

Japan and PICs have been building close cooperative relationships, forging a bond of friendship through candid discussion at PALM.