Canada signals stronger trade push in Fiji

Fiji's economic and diplo­matic ties with Canada have received a boost following a high-level visit by Canada's Sec­retary of State for International Development, Randeep Sarai. Investment Fiji, together with Global Affairs Canada, co-hosted a networking reception at the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort on Wednesday night to mark Mr Sarai's visit.

The event brought together Government officials, diplomats, business leaders and members of the Fijian-Canadian diaspora, reinforcing people-to-people and commercial links between the two countries.

Investment Fiji said the engage­ment created an important plat­form for Canadian investors to explore opportunities in Fiji, par­ticularly in sustainable develop­ment and tourism, while opening clearer pathways for Fijian busi­nesses into North American markets. Canadian High Commissioner to Fiji Jennifer Lalonde reaffirmed Canada's commitment to partner­ships that deliver tangible devel­opment outcomes and mutual eco­nomic benefits.

The Nadi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI) also wel­comed the opportunity to engage directly with Mr Sarai during his official visit. NCCI president Lawrence Ku­mar said discussions focused on Canada's foreign policy priori­ties, including diversifying trade and investment, development co­operation, and leveraging inter­national assistance to strengthen economic growth partnerships.

"We had the pleasure of meeting Randeep Sarai together with other guests, and it was a great network­ing event," Mr Kumar said.

He said such engagements played a vital role in promoting economic activity and job creation, while laying the groundwork for strong­er collaboration between NCCI members and the Fiji-Canada Business Council.

Mr Kumar also welcomed the opening of the High Commission of Canada in Fiji, describing it as a long-overdue and positive devel­opment.

"It is a relief to know there is now a fully-fledged High Commis­sion of Canada based in Suva."

"This will make it easier for our people to visit Canada and do busi­ness there," he said. He said the move could lead to in­creased visitor flows between the two countries and congratulated Ms Lalonde on her appointment, describing it as a new chapter in Fiji-Canada relations.