United Arab Emirates to open Embassy in Fiji

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed plans to open an embassy in Fiji.

This move marks a major step forward in strengthening diplomatic and development cooperation between the two nations.

The announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, to the President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi yesterday.

Ratu Naiqama, accompanied by First Lady Emily Lalabalavu, was warmly welcomed by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed.

During their meeting, the two leaders discussed shared priorities, including climate resilience, renewable energy, and sustainable development.

Ratu Naiqama thanked the UAE’s leadership during COP28 in 2023 and extended an invitation to His Highness to visit Fiji.

He also praised the UAE’s transformation from a resource-limited nation to a global leader in innovation and prosperity.

Highlighting Fiji’s potential in renewable energy, Ratu Naiqama noted the country’s abundant solar, wave, and wind resources. In response, His Highness affirmed the UAE’s readiness to support Fiji’s clean energy ambitions.

The UAE President also commended the Fijian community in the Emirates for their contributions in sectors such as education, healthcare, and aviation, describing them as “friendly, sincere, and hardworking.”

Diplomatic relations between Fiji and the UAE were formally established in March 2010. Since then, the two countries have collaborated on climate change, education, health, and renewable energy initiatives. Fiji has also benefited from the UAE-Pacific Partnership Fund, which supports solar energy projects across the Pacific.

The forthcoming UAE Embassy in Suva is expected to deepen bilateral cooperation and enhance people-to-people ties, opening new avenues for trade, investment, and development.