Fiji’s Ambassador to Belgium and Permanent Representative to the European Union, Mr Deo Saran recently held bilateral meetings with the Secretary General of Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Ana Martinho and Director of Services for Asia and Oceania, Jose Pedro Machado Viera.
During the meeting the Secretary General expressed the Government of Portugal’s appreciation to Fiji’s support, and its desire to strengthen bilateral relations in addition to the already strong multilateral relations enjoyed through the European Union.
Ambassador Saran briefed the two officials on Fiji’s developments and also sought Portugal’s understanding, cooperation and assistance in Fiji’s political reform program, in particular assisting in addressing issues raised in the Universal Periodic Review by the United Nations, Political Dialogue with the European Union and Labour reform issues raised by the ILO.
Ambassador Saran said that Fiji is keen to look at all areas of interest in deepening bilateral cooperation with Portugal and will work closely with the relevant Government agencies.
In welcoming Ambassador Saran’s statements, the Secretary General suggested a number of areas of possible cooperation and opportunities such as tourism, surfing, sports, student exchange, education and winery.
The Director of Services of Asia and Oceania said that Portugal is also keen to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding that will set out the framework for closer cooperation between the countries. Ambassador Saran welcomed this and advised that Fiji is keen to appoint an Honorary Consul in Portugal this year.
Ambassador Saran during his stay also visited the Fijian students studying under scholarships in Portugal.