Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Hon. Biman Prasad, held a series of high-level meetings in Canberra yesterday with senior Australian ministers and officials, reaffirming Fiji’s commitment to stronger regional integration and deeper cooperation with Australia.
In discussions with Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Hon. Chris Bowen, DPM Prasad conveyed Fiji’s strong support for Australia’s bid to host a “Pacific COP” in 2026, noting the significance of such a gathering for amplifying Pacific voices on climate change. The talks also focused on operationalising the Loss and Damage Fund, advancing the Pacific Resilience Facility, and ensuring that the Green Climate Fund delivers more effectively for the Pacific region.
Later, in a meeting with Australia’s Minister for Finance, Women, the Public Service and Government Services, Hon. Katy Gallagher, discussions centred around shared priorities in climate action, budget support, public sector reform, digital transformation including artificial intelligence and strengthening the public asset register. DPM Prasad expressed Fiji’s gratitude for the budget support provided by Australia in recent years, which has played a vital role in supporting Fiji’s economic and fiscal reforms.
He also shared Fiji’s long-term aspiration to transition to a higher-income country, guided by the new National Development Plan. DPM Prasad highlighted that this ambition can only be achieved through more meaningful and deeper regional integration, particularly with close partners such as Australia.
He further engaged with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to discuss potential projects and areas of support for Fiji in the years ahead.
DPM Prasad will continue with his programme today, which includes meetings with Australia’s Treasurer Dr. Jim Charmers and Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Penny Wong, as well as engagements with the Fijian diaspora communities.