PM Rabuka Signs the Renewed ‘Vuvale’ Partnership

Fiji has signed the renewed Vuvale partnership.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka signed the renewed Vuvale partnership in Canberra, Australia on Wednesday in the presence of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The updated Vuvale ties strengthen Fiji’s economic progress and trade while elevating shared commitments to combating climate change.

Additionally, it puts a stronger emphasis on skill development, cyber security, and First Nations peoples and cultures.

The existential threat posed by climate change was highlighted by Mr Rabuka, along with Australia’s commitment to modernising its economy and cooperating with Pacific neighbours to achieve a swift and stable energy transition.

The two leaders decided to collaborate closely on enhancing cooperation on climate adaptation and resilience, both individually and with other Pacific leaders.

Background 

Last month, the two nations engaged in a discussion to review and realign the principles, contents, and desired outcomes of the Fiji and Australia relationship by reflecting on the vision, goals, and priorities of the new governments of both nations.

The talks held at the two-day senior officials meeting were co-chaired on September 5, 2023, by Australia’s High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald, and the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Lesikimacuata Korovavala.

The permanent secretaries and top Australian and Fijian officials were present.

In this meeting, Mr Korovavala said: “We need to look at priorities from the standpoint of the new governments to strengthen monitoring and evaluation, while some priorities need reworking to shape them in ways that is targeted”. 

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