Senior civil servants from government ministries are attending a 3-day training programme on “Diplomacy and Practice” held in Suva and organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Civil Service.
With the aim of upskilling officials to effectively advance Fiji’s national priorities on the international stage, the programme is a platform to enhance the representation of Fiji’s interest at regional and international front.
Officiating at the workshop, Permanent Secretary for Civil Service Ms. Susan Kiran said the programme is tailored to the Fijian and Pacific context in promoting a comprehensive understanding and appreciation of the dynamics of diplomacy.
“It is essential, therefore as representatives of your nation, for you to have the appropriate skills to effectively advance Fiji’s national priorities on the international stage. You need to be strategic in making use of the available resources and opportunities to promote and advance Fiji’s national interest at the global stage.”
PS Kiran informed the participants the training will provide them with the opportunity to become better negotiators, to maximise development opportunities for Fiji and negotiating solutions to address situations of conflict or liaise with external parties on behalf of their respective agencies on a range of broad issues.
“You will obtain a broader perspective on Fiji’s Domestic Agenda and its alignment to the geopolitical landscape and importance of Fiji’s foreign policy in strengthening collaboration with Pacific and the world.”
“You will have a better understanding in the need for deeper regional and global cooperation in priority areas of economic social, political development, sustainable development, good governance, peace and security as being shared goals in diplomacy.”
PS Kiran encouraged 30 participants to maximise the opportunity to share information and strategies that would promote excellence in Fiji’s Foreign Services.
She also thanked Fiji’s Ambassador to Japan, Mr Isikeli Mataitoga for facilitating the training and for the development of training information materials and resources.