Working in unity is at the heart of regional efforts to pursue significant policy and practical measures to building back better, more sustainably and in solidarity with the most vulnerable.
This message was conveyed by Fiji’s Prime Minister Honourable Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama while participating in a virtual conference earlier this week, with the Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs for the State of Israel, Lt. General Gabi Ashkenazi and the Foreign Ministers and Senior Officials of the Pacific Island Countries.
The virtual conference enabled the Pacific Leaders to discuss mutual matters of interest with the Government of Israel. It also served as the follow up to the outcomes of the Leaders’ Summit held between the Pacific Island Leaders and the President of the State of Israel His Excellency Reuven Rivlin during his official visit to Fiji in February this year.
The key issues discussed at the meeting focused on strengthening the existing areas of cooperation programs whilst pursing new opportunities for partnership in view of the current global and regional challenges.
PM Bainimarama congratulated the Government of Israel on the courageous undertaking it has established through the newly signed peace agreements with the Governments of the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and declaration of peace with Sudan.
The Head of the Fijian Government said that these developments shall provide opportunities for further meaningful engagements between Israel and the Pacific region.
PM Bainimarama conveyed Fiji’s appreciation to the Government of Israel for its assistance towards Fiji’s contributions to peacekeeping and security in the Middle East region for the last 42years.
In reaffirming Fiji’s support for regional solidarity, PM Bainimarama said that comprehensive partnership is crucial towards collectively addressing current challenges encountered in terms of COVID19 and Climate Change.
In view of the concerted efforts of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to achieving sustainable oceans and environment, PM Bainimarama commended the efforts of the Government of Israel to phase out coal by 2025 – in alignment with the commitments of the Paris Agreement.
PM Bainimarama also stated that the SIDS shared vision and aspirations on an ideal world of net-zero emissions, sustainably-managed oceans, gender equity, digital inclusivity, and equitable development is not only a question of resolve but of resources.
In reflecting on 50 years of cordial relations between Israel and Fiji, PM Bainimarama thanked the Government of Israel for its contributions and support for Fiji and the region.