Solo Mara Takes Over as New Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary

Solo Mara has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade following the completion of the Public Service recruitment process.

Mara assumes the position following the expiry of the contract of outgoing Permanent Secretary Raijeli Taga.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Sakiasi Ditoka welcomed Mara to the ministry, saying the appointment comes at an important time as Fiji works to strengthen its diplomatic presence, external trade relations and international partnerships.

Ditoka also acknowledged Taga for her leadership and service during her tenure, saying she guided the ministry through a busy period of Fiji’s international engagement.

A three-week handover period will take place to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in the ministry’s operations.

The Minister said the leadership change would not disrupt Fiji’s diplomatic and trade agenda, with work continuing across the ministry’s headquarters and overseas missions.

“Our work continues. Fiji has an increasingly active diplomatic and trade agenda, and we have a responsibility to ensure that our headquarters and overseas missions operate as one team, with clear priorities, strong accountability and a consistent focus on advancing Fiji’s national interests,” Ditoka said.

He said he looked forward to working with Mara and the ministry’s staff to build on existing programmes and further strengthen Fiji’s foreign service.

Mara’s appointment comes as Fiji continues to expand its diplomatic engagement and pursue stronger international partnerships and trade opportunities.