Prime Minister Rabuka and Japan’s Defense Minister Koizumi Strengthen Fiji – Japan Defense and Security Partnership

The Hon. Sitiveni L. Rabuka, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, and External Trade, Civil Service and Public Enterprises, held a bilateral meeting with the Hon. Shinjirō Koizumi, Japan’s Minister for Defense at the Ministry of Defense in Shinjuku City, Tokyo.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral security and defense cooperation, underscoring shared values on freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. The Ministers discussed a wide range of collaborative areas, including maritime security, cybersecurity, people-to-people exchanges, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response mechanisms. Minister Koizumi also outlined Japan’s evolving defense equipment transfer policy and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Fiji’s national resilience efforts, particularly in addressing climate change and agricultural challenges.

Both Ministers acknowledged their longstanding friendship and strategic partnership in the Pacific region. Minister Koizumi recognized Fiji’s unique position as one of the few Pacific Island Countries with a standing military and commended Prime Minister Rabuka’s regional leadership. Concrete discussions included enhancing maritime domain awareness through integrated surveillance systems, leveraging Japan’s technical expertise to strengthen regional maritime governance, and exploring further collaboration under Japan’s official security assistance framework.

Both countries aim to deepen cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR), climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture. Japan’s continued support in combating transnational crime and illegal drug trafficking, along with its educational and medical assistance to the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), further highlights the expanding scope of this strategic partnership.

Prior to his appointment as Minister for Defense, Hon. Koizumi held various cabinet positions, including Minister for the Environment. In his current role, he is focused on strengthening Japan’s security posture and has advocated for the modernization of the Japan Self-Defense Forces, exploring advanced capabilities that mark a significant shift in Japan’s defense strategy.

The bilateral meeting was preceded by a Guard of Honour Ceremony, symbolizing respect, hospitality, and recognition of the Prime Minister as Head of Government.

End.

Embassy of the Republic of Fiji

TOKYO

12/11/2025