President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Katonivere officiated at the commissioning ceremony of Fiji’s Ambassador Designate to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Mr Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya at the State House today.
President Katonivere congratulated Ambassador Koya on his diplomatic appointment and wished him well in the new role.
As a result of today's commissioning, Fiji and the UAE will be able to maximise opportunities to enhance their bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Koya expressed his appreciation to the Fiji Government for having confidence in him to take on the new diplomatic role.
Prior to his diplomatic appointment, Ambassador Koya, a Barrister and Solicitor, currently serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Board of Biosecurity Fiji.
He holds a Bachelor of Laws with Honors and a Diploma in Higher Education in Law from the University of Wolverhampton in the United Kingdom, which he earned in 1993. In 1995, he obtained a Certificate in Legal Practice from the University of Tasmania.
Ambassador Koya was admitted to the High Court of Fiji in 1999 and has since adjudicated on a range of cases, including criminal trials (both summary and indictable offences), civil trials, domestic violence matters, and family law proceedings, including adoption applications.
The ceremony was attended by the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua and Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr Lesikimacuata Korovavala.