The excellent cooperation between Fiji and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will create more development opportunities for the benefit of communities in Fiji.
This was conveyed at the courtesy call received by the Permanent Secretary (PS) for the Office of the Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs, Mr Yogesh Karan from the Non-resident Ambassador of United Arab Emirates to Fiji, Mr Rashed Matar Alsiri Alqemzi.
PS Karan congratulated and conveyed his best wishes to Ambassador Alqemzi as he assumes his new role.
He commended UAE’s remarkable efforts to support Fiji through numerous initiatives that had a positive impact on the communities in Fiji.
One such initiative includes the UAE-Pacific Partnership Fund (UAE-PPF) which has resulted in significant renewable energy projects in Fiji. Fiji is grateful to the UAE Government in its pursuit of the Lau, Kadavu, and Rotuma (LAKARO) renewable energy project worth 5 million USD; this has been possible through the UAE-Pacific Partnership Fund.
PS Karan extended the Fijian Government’s appreciation to UAE Red Crescent Authority for their assistance in the reconstruction of three schools damaged by Tropical Cyclone Winston.
He said Fiji looks forward to UAE’s leadership in securing ambitious and successful UN Climate talks in the lead up to COP27 in Egypt, this year.
At the meeting it was highlighted that Fiji’s engagement in peacekeeping operations is a testament to our commitment to the defence, peace, and security of the wider Middle East region; and that Fiji will continue to play its peacekeeping part in collaboration with the UAE and the United Nations.
On regional updates, PS Karan said Fiji looks to the UAE to support the “2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent” which is now the foundation document for the Pacific’s regional development.
In response, Ambassador Alqemzi said both UAE and Fiji enjoy warm diplomatic relations based on mutual respect and shared aspirations.
He said the discussions with various stakeholders in Fiji has been beneficial on numerous areas of cooperation, which UAE is keen on pursing with Fiji.
Ambassador Alqemzi acknowledged Fiji’s leadership on climate and with UAE to host the Conference of Parties (COP-28) in 2023, UAE looks forward for Fiji’s partnership and support.
Fiji established diplomatic relations with the UAE in March 2010. Over the years, cooperation between Fiji and UAE has further advanced with the opening of Fiji’s Embassy in Abu Dhabi which has accelerated the cordial bilateral relations. Areas of cooperation have included access to renewable energy, climate change, and disaster rehabilitation, amongst others.
