Australia’s new Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator Penny Wong is willing to work with Fiji on its challenges and opportunities when it presents itself.

Senator Wong said they would walk the talk when it comes to climate change.

“This is a different Australian Government and a different Australia.”

“We will stand shoulder to shoulder with you.”

“We understand that we need to work together like never before,” Senator Wong said.

Pacific Islands Forum
She was delivering her keynote address during the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat cocktail and reception in Suva last night.

“My country is a founding member of the forum and a membership that we treasure.”

“I came here and wanted to say in person on behalf of the new Australian Government that we treasure our Pacific partnership,” Senator Wong said.

“Thank you for your stewardship of our shared blue Pacific with all its different diversity and thank you for being custodians of some of the ancient cultures and languages.

“I know the imperative we share to take action.”

“I understand climate change isn’t an abstract threat, it’s the present and important one.”

“We affirm that climate change remains the single greatest threat to the people of the Pacific.”

“Australia has neglected its responsibility in ignoring the calls of our Pacific families and disrespecting the Pacific nations.”

“With the threats of rising sea levels, climate change is felt across the Pacific families.”

“So I assure you that we have heard you.”

“The new Australian Government is going to make it happen by reducing emissions by 43 per cent by 2030.”

“We are committing to transitioning to a low carbon economy moving to cleaner energy.”

“We need to end the climate change war in our countries.”

Senator Wong has just returned from the Quad leaders meeting in Tokyo, where strategic security dialogue between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.

Fiji is her second international engagement after her appointment on Monday.

Today, she will be meeting Fijian women leaders at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva organised by the Australian High Commission.

She will also meet Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

She leaves the country tonight.
Feedback: wati.talebula@fijisun.com.fj