PM Rabuka Meets Australia’s Governor-General, Strengthens Vuvale Ties

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka met with Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, Governor-General of Australia, yesterday at Government House in Canberra, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the Fiji–Australia Vuvale Partnership.

Rabuka congratulated Ms Mostyn on her appointment and thanked the Australian Government for its ongoing support in Fiji’s development, including budget assistance, economic reforms, and infrastructure investment.

The leaders also discussed sports diplomacy, with Rabuka highlighting the Vuvale Bowl rugby match and Fiji Airways’ sponsorship of Australian teams such as the ACT Brumbies and Melbourne Storm. He also noted growing ties with the AFL and the importance of tourism, with over 45% of Fiji’s 2024 visitor arrivals coming from Australia.

Rabuka reiterated support for Australia’s COP31 bid and expressed confidence in Pacific unity ahead of the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum in Honiara, where he hopes to gain endorsement for the “Ocean of Peace” Declaration.

Governor-General Mostyn thanked Rabuka for the dialogue and affirmed Australia’s commitment to advancing regional cooperation and the Blue Pacific priorities.