Australian PM to visit Fiji for Vuvale Partnership talks

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will visit Fiji on Sunday to hold talks with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, as Australia moves to strengthen its Vuvale Partnership with Fiji and reinforce its commitment to regional security in the Pacific.

Mr Albanese will travel to Suva from July 5 to 7 before continuing to the Solomon Islands. He will be accompanied by Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Penny Wong.

The visit will focus on deepening cooperation between Fiji and Australia under the Vuvale Partnership and advancing shared priorities for the Pacific.

"Fiji and Solomon Islands are not just our neighbours, we are part of the Pacific family, and we work together for the good of our region," Mr Albanese said.

"I look forward to meeting with my friend Prime Minister Rabuka to uplift the Vuvale Partnership, create opportunities for young people and celebrate the bond between our countries."

Mr Albanese said Australia remained committed to supporting a peaceful, secure and prosperous Pacific.

"Australia remains a partner that the Pacific can rely on. By working together we can foster a safe and resilient region that enables all of our economies to grow and prosper."

Following his visit to Fiji, Mr Albanese will travel to Honiara, where he will meet Solomon Islands Prime Minister Matthew Wale and attend the country's Independence Day celebrations.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the visit reflected the Albanese Government's commitment to strengthening relationships across the Pacific.

"The Albanese Government is working hard to make transformational breakthroughs in the Pacific and shape a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.

"In Fiji and Solomon Islands, we will continue strengthening our relationships by listening, respecting and acting on Pacific priorities in the Pacific way.

"A stronger, safer and sovereign Pacific is good for Australia and for our region."