The German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visited the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) yesterday, during her first official visit to Fiji this week.
The Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General (SG) Henry Puna welcomed Ms. Baerbock and her delegation for first of such meetings, an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation between the Pacific and Germany.
In her remarks, Ms. Baerbock reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to further deepen engagements with the Pacific region and collaborate closely to address common challenges such as the climate crisis and promote economic resilience.
Ms. Baerbock said the presence of the German Embassy in Fiji, promotes bilateral and regional cooperation.
The German Minister said her visit to Fiji is an opportunity to see how best Germany can work closely with Pacific region to strengthen cooperation in climate resilience, economic development and people to people links.
On the same note, Ms. Baerbock said she looks forward for the deliberations with the various stakeholders including communities in Fiji, to enhance the levels of cooperation.
SG Puna remarked that the German Minister’s visit demonstrates Germany’s commitment and support for Fiji and the region, particularly with the presence of high level dignities and senior officials who are part of the German delegation visiting Fiji.
Following her visit to PIFS, the German Minister visited the Vuniniudrovu village located in the terrains of the Naitasiri province. This rural community is one of the many villages in Fiji that are impacted by the exacerbating effects of the climate crisis.
