Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reaffirmed Fiji’s strong partnership with Australia, saying both countries are working closely to address regional security threats, the global fuel crisis and Pacific climate priorities through a strengthened Vuvale partnership.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Suva, Rabuka welcomed Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Minister for Pacific Affairs and Defence Industry Pat Conroy, describing them as “great friends of Fiji.”
“This visit, ladies and gentlemen, reflect the strength, the maturity and the depth of the Fiji-Australia partnership and our shared commitment to advancing a stable, secure and prosperous blue Pacific,” Rabuka said.
Rabuka said Fiji remains committed to the decisions of Pacific Islands Forum leaders and regional mechanisms in responding to current challenges, particularly the fuel crisis affecting the Pacific.
“In particular, Fiji has expressed its support for the Biketawa Declaration as the framework to coordinate our responses to the current fuel crisis.”
The Prime Minister said discussions also focused on the Vuvale Union process, which he described as Fiji’s first formal arrangement of its kind with Australia.
“Our discussion today (Wednesday) reaffirmed the significant progress that has been made on the Vuvale Union – Fiji’s first ever – in its formal process now nearing completion.”
“This represents a huge step up in our relationship, I acknowledge both the officials of both our countries in the work that they undertook in getting us to where we are today.”
Rabuka thanked Australia for supporting Fiji through the process.
“I thank Australia for your understanding and willingness to embrace Fiji in that journey.”
He said the partnership was built on shared values and designed to deliver long-term outcomes.
“I firmly believe that the foundation upon which our wider partnership is built is anchored in shared values, one that is fit for the century, and it is designed to deliver enduring outcomes across security, economic cooperation and people-to-people connections.”
Rabuka said the Vuvale Union also supports Fiji’s “Ocean of Peace” vision for the Pacific.
“Importantly, the Vuvale Union operationalises the Ocean of Peace vision, embedding the principles of sovereignty, respect and Pacific-led solutions into a practical cooperative framework.”
“It positions Fiji and Australia as trusted partners working together to strengthen resilience, safeguard stability and advance the collective interests of our region.”
Security cooperation was also high on the agenda, with Rabuka highlighting growing concerns over illicit drug activity in the Pacific.
“Security is a central pillar in our partnership. Fiji continues to address increasingly complex transnational threats, particularly the rise in illicit drug activities.”
“I believe that through coordination between our national security agencies and with the valued support of our Australian partner, we are enhancing our capacity in intelligence sharing, law enforcement cooperation and operational responses.”
“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to protecting our communities and upholding peace and stability in line with our Ocean of Peace principles.”
Rabuka said Fiji had taken the lead in promoting the Ocean of Peace initiative internationally, while acknowledging Australia’s respect for the concept as a Fiji-led initiative.
“When we come to deal with the Ocean of Peace, our Australian counterparts prefer that we take the lead in its mention to the world, out of their respect for it being a Fiji initiative.”
“But I’ve always said that Fiji is just a partner in our cooperation in this part of the world.”
The Prime Minister also addressed the ongoing fuel crisis linked to global instability, thanking Australia for its regional support.
“We also discussed the ongoing global fuel crisis. And I thank Australia and its leadership, Prime Minister Albanese for hosting our Minister for Foreign Affairs when he visited them two weeks ago.”
Rabuka said Fiji had a responsibility to support neighbouring Pacific countries dependent on fuel supplies routed through Fiji.
“Fiji has a responsibility, as you do, to other Pacific Island countries, and you probably know that Minister for Tonga had called me a week prior to the escalation of the crisis to just remind me, remember, we are getting our supplies through Fiji.”
“Fiji has a responsibility that was voiced by that in that conversation with the Prime Minister of Tonga.”
He said Fiji was working to secure fuel supplies while coordinating with regional and international partners.
“Fiji has been actively pursuing measures to secure stable supply, and we acknowledge that this challenge requires coordinated regional and international responses.”
“We take confidence in the solidarity of our partnership and our shared resolve to navigate this period together, and we assured very much by assurances this morning that that will continue.”
Climate diplomacy and preparations for Pre-COP31 were also discussed during the talks.
Rabuka welcomed Australia’s leadership role for COP31 alongside Türkiye and said Fiji was honoured to host the pre-COP meeting later this year.
“Fiji is honoured to host the pre-COP31 meeting later this year, which will serve as a critical platform to shape the global climate agenda.”
“It will enable us to consolidate Pacific priorities, build consensus and provide the political momentum needed to deliver ambitious outcomes on climate action, finance and ocean protection.”
“This is an important opportunity for Pacific leaders to influence global decisions that directly impact the Pacific future.”
Rabuka also reaffirmed iji’s commitment to working closely with Australia and Pacific partners.
“I extend the sincere appreciation for the Australian Vuvale partnership for our continued Australian Vuvale partners for our continued partnership and friendship together, we are stronger and we remain committed to advancing a peaceful, resilient and united Pacific region,” he said.
