PM Receives New Naval Vessel From Aust

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabu­ka on Thursday received Fiji’s second Guardian-Class Patrol Boat RFNS Puamau from the Government of Australian.

Prime Minister Rabuka said this was a testament to the strong bi­lateral relations shared by Fiji and Australia.

He highlighted the critical timing of RFNS Puamau’s arrival, empha­sising its role in enhancing Fiji’s maritime capabilities.

“The vessel has come at a critical time and is a most welcomed addi­tion to our effort in improving Fiji’s ability to protect its waters against the increasing threats in our re­gion particularly from illegal, un­reported, unregulated fishing and transnational organised crime,” Mr Rabuka said.

“From a grateful nation, I say vinaka vakalevu to Australia,” he said.

Drawing attention to recent drug raids conducted by Fiji Police, the Prime Minister highlighted the im­portance of the Pacific Maritime Security Programme in addressing challenges unique to the region.

Under the command of Lieuten­ant Commander Sairusi Colati, the naval vessel is expected to arrive in Fiji next month.

The vessel is named after late Able Seaman Timo Puamau, a Nayau, Lau native, who died on board a naval vessel that torpedoed in Solo­mon Island waters at the peak of World War II in the Pacific.

Australia’s Minister for Defence Industry and International Devel­opment and the Pacific Pat Conroy said Australia is proud to be Fiji’s security partner of choice.

“The delivery of the second Guardian-class Patrol Boat today is a tangible demonstration of our Vuvale Partnership,” Mr Conroy added.

“By enhancing Fiji’s maritime se­curity capabilities, we become more effective at tackling our shared re­gional challenges together.”

Paid Advertisement | March 2024

Feedback: inoke.rabonu@fijisun.com.fj