Fiji is committed to strengthening its long standing relationship with France and advancing key areas of cooperation particularly, on the issue of climate change, oceans, agriculture and defence.
Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, Mr Yogesh Karan reiterated this commitment while receiving a courtesy call from the Charge d’ Affaires of France to Fiji, Mr Rene’ Consolo yesterday.
With the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr Karan said Fiji intends to diversify its cooperation with France on a few sectoral areas to complement our tourism sector and essential services that are not only crucial sectors for our economy but also for the well-being of our people.
Mr Karan added like other countries, Fiji’s focus and efforts are focused on economic recovery and ensuring that its people have equitable access to safe COVID-19 health care and vaccines.
Fiji looks forward to working with France and also the European Union in this regard.
The Permanent Secretary, at the meeting, also acknowledged France’s contribution towards the European Development Fund (EDF) which has supported Fijian projects such as infrastructure, education, vocational training, health care and many other key sectors.
He thanked the French Government for its continued support and also congratulated Mr Consolo on his new appointment.
Mr Consolo, in response, acknowledged the warm reception accorded to him upon his arrival.
He said that he is looking forward to further strengthening the two countries’ relations and elevating it to the next level.