Fiji and Marshall Islands are determined to advance diplomatic relations and strengthen cooperation to new levels.
This was conveyed today at a courtesy call to the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua from the Ambassador of the Republic of the Marshall Islands to Fiji His Excellency, Junior Aini.
The meeting looked at the cooperation between the two nations in the build up to the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting to be held in Cook Islands from November 6-10, with the theme: Our Voices, Our Choices, Our Pacific Way: Promote, Partner, Prosper.
It highlighted the importance of Fiji Volunteer Scheme through which our Fijian nationals have contributed to the development of Marshall Islands through the deployment of retired teachers, nurses, pilots and now accountants under the Fiji Volunteer Scheme.
It was mentioned that there are about 400 Fijians working in Marshall Islands, and there is opportunities to enhance the diaspora networking.
Hon. Qereqeretabua thanked Marshall Islands for their continued cooperation and friendship with Fiji.
She acknowledged the work undertaken by both the countries for the Development Cooperation Agreement (DCA) currently in consultation stage and anticipated to be finalized in the coming months.
The Assistant Minister said Fiji looks forward to working closely with Marshall Islands to address common challenges such as climate change, at the same time advance our regional solidarity, peace and security.
Ambassador Aini extended Marshall Islands determination to further strengthen and realign our cooperation with the priorities of the two nations.
He thanked the Fijians working in Marshall Islands for their impressive contributions in various fields such as education and health.
He congratulated Fiji for the recent historic win by the Flying Fijians at the Rugby World Cup (RWC) 2023, which is a proud achievement for Fiji and the Pacific region.
Ambassador Aini also congratulated Hon. Qereqeretabua for assumption of her ministerial role and assured Marshall Islands full support in enhancing cooperation.
On the same note, he expressed Marshall Islands interest to appoint an honorary consul to further deepen the partnership between our two nations.
