Fiji and Australia’s Vuvale Partnership will unfold new opportunities for cooperation in shared priorities, particularly in achieving resilient economies, addressing climate change, and advancing regional peace and security.
This was conveyed during a meeting held yesterday between Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and his counterpart, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Prime Minister Bainimarama thanked Prime Minister Albanese for his leadership and support for the region’s prosperity and for the assistance Australia rendered to Fiji during times of great need.
He reaffirmed the Fijian Government’s support to strengthen areas of cooperation, in climate actions, oceans, economic development, trade, and investment amongst others.
He said the Pacific looks to Australia’s continued support for the 2050 Strategy and to achieving a resilient Pacific region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion, and prosperity.
Prime Minister Bainimarama said the Vuvale Partnership demonstrates the strong friendship and cooperation between Fiji and Australia, which has continued to strengthen over the years.
In response, Prime Minister Albanese congratulated Prime Minister Bainimarama for the successful hosting of the 51st Pacific Islands Forum Leaders.
The Australian Prime Minister commended Prime Minister Bainimarama for his leadership on climate and he reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to enhance support in addressing climate change.
He re-affirmed that the 2050 strategy is a vision for the region, our future, economies, and people.
Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged the progressive steps the Fijian Government has taken to revive tourism and rebuild the economy in Fiji, in the face of challenges imposed by the pandemic and climate change.
He assured Prime Minister Bainimarama of Australia’s continued support in the areas of socio-economic development and increased support for labour mobility, including permanent migration.
Prime Minister Albanese emphasised the importance of regional security and solidarity and Australia’s support for the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific continent.
He said Australia will strengthen support to Fiji through our Vuvale Partnership which illustrates Fiji and Australia’s historical links and unbreakable bonds of friendship and cooperation.