Fiji and Singapore Strengthen Ties, Expand Cooperation in Trade, Climate, and Diplomacy

Fiji and Singapore have reaffirmed their strong bilateral relationship during a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong held today at the Singapore Parliament House.

The historic meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in key sectors including trade, investment, climate resilience, good governance, and capacity building. It also served to reinforce the long-standing friendship between the two nations, established since diplomatic ties were first formalised in 1971.

Prime Minister Rabuka thanked the Singaporean government for its continued support, describing Singapore as a trusted development partner. He also outlined Fiji’s plan to establish a diplomatic school under the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS), and welcomed possible collaboration with the Singapore Diplomatic Academy in developing training programs in diplomacy and international relations.

The two leaders also discussed Fiji’s involvement in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), which Rabuka said is part of the country’s broader strategy to expand trade, build resilience, and navigate global challenges like climate change and supply chain disruptions.

On regional cooperation, both leaders reaffirmed support for the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. PM Rabuka also promoted the “Ocean of Peace” concept, aimed at encouraging shared responsibility for peace and security in the Pacific region.

In response, PM Wong highlighted the shared values between Fiji and Singapore, including a commitment to multilateralism, free trade, and respect for international law. He confirmed Singapore’s intent to deepen cooperation with Fiji in areas such as infrastructure development, digital transformation, and public service training.

Wong noted that more than 1,500 Fijian officials have participated in Singapore’s capacity-building programs and said this partnership will continue to grow. He also expressed Singapore’s support for Fiji’s greater engagement in regional platforms such as APEC and ASEAN.

Both leaders concluded the meeting with a renewed commitment to work together in multilateral forums including the United Nations, the Alliance of Small Island States, and the International Maritime Organisation.