The Australian Government is this week travelling to the Republic of Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga, and the Republic of Vanuatu as the government seeks to strengthen trade relations with the Pacific.
This will be the first official overseas visit for the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Matt Thistlethwaite.
While in Suva, government officials will meet Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sitiveni Rabuka to discuss strengthening the Vuvale Partnership, deepening trade arrangements, and boosting cooperation on development, climate action, and resilience.
The first iteration of the Fiji and Australia Vuvale Partnership was signed in 2019, signalling a commitment to closer cooperation, consultation, and friendship between the two nations.
“In Nuku’alofa, we will meet Prime Minister ‘Aisake Eke and Minister for Foreign Affairs and His Majesty’s Armed Forces His Royal Highness Tupoutoʻa ‘Ulukalala to advance our deep partnership, and our shared Pacific Islands Forum priorities with Tonga, the current Forum Chair,” says Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong.
“In Port Vila, we will meet Prime Minister Jotham Napat and senior government ministers. We will reaffirm Australia’s commitment to elevate our bilateral relationship through the development of the Nakamal Agreement with Vanuatu, including strengthening our community and First Nations connections.
“Australia is a respectful, reliable and transparent partner, responding to the region’s needs and priorities.In uncertain times, Australia and the Pacific are counting on each other as we build a region that is peaceful, stable and prosperous.”
Write to Adam Orlando at Mining.com.au
Images: Australian Government
