Duavata Partnership With NZ A Significant Milestone, Says PM

New Zealand has signed a historic agreement with Fiji signalling increased assistance and partnership on many fronts.

The signing of the Duavata Partnership between Fiji’s Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and New Zealand’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Nanaia Mahuta yesterday would see the two countries work together in partnership on issues of common interest.

Fijians would also benefit from this signing given that assistance has been pledged for the health sector, building resilience in areas of climate change, security, and sustainable economic recovery from COVID-19.

The PM said the Duavata Partnership was a landmark achievement in the advancement of Fiji and New Zealand’s collaborations.

“It illustrates our shared commitment and vision for regional solidarity. New Zealand has been a great partner and friend to Fiji and our partnership is the strongest ever,” Mr Bainimarama said.

He added that the Duavata Partnership reaffirmed Fiji and New Zealand’s commitment to work together on issues of shared interests and importance.

Ms Mahuta said the new statement of partnership reflected the two countries’ joint ambition to elevate and strengthen relationships that underlines the importance of Fiji to New Zealand.

“Aotearoa New Zealand is committed to working alongside Fiji and supporting common goals — both in Fiji and in the Pacific region — that build resilience in areas such as climate change, security, and sustainable economic recovery from COVID-19,” she said.

Mr Bainimarama also extended his appreciation to New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, for her strong leadership and unwavering support that has led to the Duavata Partnership.

“This has been evident through the remarkable support which New Zealand has rendered to Fiji during our greatest moments of need,” he said.

“Fiji is grateful to the New Zealand Government for its assistance to Fiji for the national recovery efforts from climate impacts and COVID-19 pandemic, through the provision of humanitarian, budgetary support and life saving vaccines. This strategic co-operation is timely, as our region paves its way forward to progressive socio-economic recovery.

“It will give impetus to our common aspirations on achieving greener, bluer and resilient recovery, with the interest of our Pacific people at the heart of it.”

Mr Bainimarama said the Fijian Government looked forward to working closely with the NZ Government in the full realisation of the commitments made.