Fiji and Philippines Renew Commitment to Deepen Strategic Cooperation

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka yesterday received a courtesy visit from Her Excellency Ms. Kira Christianne D. Azucena, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to Fiji, as both countries reaffirmed their long-standing diplomatic ties and pledged to expand cooperation in key strategic sectors.

Welcoming Ambassador Azucena and her delegation to his Suva office, Prime Minister Rabuka reflected on the enduring friendship between Fiji and the Philippines, formally established in 1973, and emphasized the importance of building on this foundation.

Discussions during the meeting centered on deepening bilateral collaboration across areas of mutual interest, with both parties reiterating their commitment to strengthen diplomatic and development partnerships.

Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged the Philippines’ global leadership in labour migration, education, maritime development, and disaster risk reduction. He expressed Fiji’s appreciation for the vibrant people-to-people connections between the two nations, fostered through educational exchanges, technical cooperation, and regional engagement.

Ambassador Azucena reaffirmed her country’s commitment to expanding bilateral ties with Fiji and the broader Pacific region, particularly in areas aligned with sustainable development, resilience, and economic progress.

Key areas of cooperation identified during the meeting included:

Labour Mobility and Skills Exchange – Enhancing structured mobility schemes to provide more opportunities for workers from both countries.

Food Security and Agricultural Innovation – Promoting collaborative research and climate-smart agricultural practices.

Disaster Risk Management and Climate Resilience – Strengthening early warning systems, emergency preparedness, and recovery mechanisms.

Tourism Cooperation – Developing shared strategies in marketing, training, and tourism infrastructure.

Digital Governance and Cybersecurity – Exchanging best practices to strengthen e-governance and safeguard digital systems.

The meeting marks a renewed chapter in Fiji–Philippines relations, focused on practical partnerships that support shared goals in resilience, prosperity, and regional solidari