Fiji, U.S Celebrate Ahead of Independence Day

United States Ambassador to Fiji Marie Damour reaffirmed the growing strength of Fiji and United States (U.S) relations during an early Independence Day celebration aboard the USS Blue Ridge at Suva Wharf on Wednesday night.

Delivering her remarks from the deck of the U.S 7th Fleet’s flagship, Ms Damour reflected on a “monumental year” for bilateral ties, citing deeper defense cooperation, stronger air connectivity, and enhanced cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

“This year has proven that the sky is truly the limit for what Fiji and the United States can achieve together,” Ms Damour said.

She noted key developments in 2024, including the historic first visit by a sitting U.S Secretary of Defence to Fiji and the signing of the first Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement, which facilitated shared logistics and emergency support. Talks also started on a Status of Forces Agreement to further strengthen military coordination.

In August 2024, both nations signed a groundbreaking Open Skies Agreement, enhancing trade, tourism, and air connectivity. Just four months later, Fiji Airways launched its longest route to date, a nonstop Nadi–Dallas flight, marking its fifth destination in North America.

“These achievements are not just diplomatic milestones, they are bridges connecting our economies, cultures, and communities,” she said.

The event also paid tribute to the longstanding defense ties between the two countries, particularly Fiji’s contributions during World War II.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Ambassador Marie Damour, and U.S 7th Fleet Deputy Commander Rear Admiral Mark Gantt during the cake cutting. Pictured bottom right: Crew members of USS Blue Ridge during the United States early Independence Day celebration aboard the USS Blue Ridge at Suva Wharf on May 7, 2025. Photos: DEPTFO News

Ambassador Damour honoured Fijian soldiers who fought alongside American forces in the Pacific, with special mention of Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu, the first Fijian to receive the Victoria Cross, for his bravery.

“Fijians stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Americans during one of history’s darkest chapters,” she said.

“That shared sacrifice laid the foundation for the enduring partnership we celebrate today.”

The ambassador also praised the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) for continuing this legacy through peacekeeping operations around the world, describing them as “a living testament to Fiji’s commitment to peace and international service.”

Hosted aboard one of the oldest active vessels in the U.S Navy, the celebration was both symbolic and ceremonial.

Ambassador Damour thanked Rear Admiral Mark Gantt, Captain DeLeo, and the crew of the USS Blue Ridge for their hospitality, and expressed gratitude to all Fijian partners and friends present at the event.

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