Fiji and he United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are exploring ways to facilitate UNDP operations so that the UNDP can provide further assistance and support for development projects in Fiji and the South Pacific region.

Acting Prime Minister, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum met with UNDP deputy regional director for Asia and the Pacific and Director of Bangkok Regional Hub, Nicholas Rosellini on Wednesday to discuss specific policies that will help make UNDP operations in Fiji more efficient.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said that the UNDP recognised Fiji as the regional hub for development projects and was looking to consolidate its regional development assistance programmes through the UNDP office in Suva.

“Fiji, in time, will provide the right environment and legal framework to assist UNDP, and other similar multi-lateral organisations, to operate out of Fiji. Fiji is the regional hub for development in the Pacific and the UNDP is keen to work with us on development projects throughout the region,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.