The Minister for Health and Medical Services, Ratu Atonio Rabici Lalabalavu, attended the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) High-Level Forum at the Akasaka Intercity Conference Center (AICC) on 6 December 2025. The event was co-hosted by the Government of Japan, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the World Bank Group.
Photo credit: UHC High-Level Forum 2025.
The forum brought together 200 Ministers and Senior Health and Finance Officials from 24 countries to share knowledge on delivering quality health services, review global progress toward UHC, and commit to concrete action plans for building inclusive, resilient, and equitable health systems.
In addressing a session on global partnership and new commitments towards deepening UHC country compacts, Minister Lalabalavu emphasized Fiji’s commitment to modernizing the national healthcare system, highlighting the Pacific Healthy Islands Transformation (PHIT) Project, which aims to improve healthcare delivery and ensure equitable access to essential services for all Fijians. To support this vision, Fiji has secured joint funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank, positioning Fiji as a model for health system modernization in the Pacific.
A major highlight of the forum was the launch of the Universal Health Coverage Knowledge Hub, a global platform designed to strengthen health financing in low- and middle-income countries. The Hub will provide evidence-based policy guidance, peer learning opportunities, and leadership training to help health and finance institutions in implementing sustainable reforms. This marks a shift from advocacy to practical action, underpinning UHC as both a health and economic priority aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Along the margins of the forum, Dr. Lalabalavu also met with Hon. Kenichiro Ueno, Japan’s Minister for Health, Labour and Welfare.The Ministers expressed appreciation for the recent Fiji–Japan Prime Ministers’ Bilateral Summit held on 13 November 2025 and the signing of the Lomavata-Kizuna Partnership. Both sides commended their strong bilateral relationship, with Japan contributing significantly to Fiji’s efforts in combating non-communicable diseases, improving basic healthcare, strengthening workforce capacity, and supporting infrastructure development.
Minister Ueno acknowledged Fiji’s role and contribution in the region, noting its hosting of the Pacific Health Ministerial Meeting (PHMM). The PHMM is convened on a rotational basis among Pacific Island Countries and was first hosted by Fiji at its inception in 1995. The Healthy Islands concept, which later evolved into the Healthy Islands Vision 2050, was likewise introduced during the inaugural PHMM. Minister Lalabalavu recognized Japan’s role as a WHO Executive Board Member in addressing health challenges in the Pacific. Both Ministers noted the effective implementation of the newly launched UHC Knowledge Hub. The role of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in supporting Fiji’s health sector was also acknowledged.
Hon. Minister Lalabalavu was also joined by the Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, Dr. Jemesa Tudravu and Ms. Kelera Savu, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim (CdA a.i.) at the Fiji Embassy Tokyo.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
06/12/2025
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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. Yasushi Kaneko, Japan’s Minister for Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan.
(Courtesy of the Ministry for Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism – Prime Minister Rabuka with Minister Kaneko)
The meeting reaffirmed Fiji and Japan’s longstanding friendship and strategic partnership.
Prime Minister Rabuka expressed appreciation for Japan’s significant role in supporting Fiji’s maritime and infrastructural priorities. Japan’s technical cooperation and disaster-resilience initiatives have been instrumental in strengthening Fiji’s maritime transport system and advancing port modernization efforts.
The meeting also reflected on the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Kanagawa Prefecture and Yokohama Port, where innovative carbon-neutral port initiatives and Japan’s commitment to renewable energy solutions were commended. Prime Minister Rabuka underscored Fiji’s interest in expanding Fiji and Japan’s tourism industry in the aviation sector.
Under Minister Kaneko’s portfolio, Japan remains committed to advancing urban and maritime development across the Indo-Pacific region.
The bilateral discussions underscored shared priorities in maritime cooperation, renewable energy, and tourism, emphasizing the enduring partnership between Fiji and Japan and paving the way for deeper collaboration across the Indo-Pacific region.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
14/11/2025
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The Hon. Sitiveni L. Rabuka, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, External Trade, Civil Service, and Public Enterprises, along with the Fiji delegation, undertook site visits to Yokohama Port and the Keihin Koyasu Shipyard in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture.
(Courtesy of the Fiji Government – Prime Minister Rabuka & delegation at the APT Terminal, Yokohama Port)
The visit to the APT Terminal at Yokohama Port provided valuable insights into Japan’s shipping operations, port facilities, and infrastructure, as well as opportunities for technology transfer and innovative approaches to advancing decarbonization through new technologies. The visit aligns closely with Fiji’s need to enhance port facilities and maritime services.
Yokohama Port is a vital hub for Japan’s international logistics, handling approximately 30 percent of container traffic in Tokyo Bay and contributing around 14 percent of Japan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Since its opening in 1858, it has developed into one of Japan’s five major trading ports, equipped with world‑class infrastructure capable of accommodating 20,000 Twenty‑Foot Equivalent Unit (TEU) container ships. With targeted investment from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, and the introduction of new systems, the port is expected to further strengthen its international competitiveness, support economic growth, and foster deeper collaboration among local governments—highlighted as a key priority in Japan’s maritime industry.
Japan’s adoption of new technologies to advance carbon neutrality resonates strongly with its national mandate to address climate action. Decarbonization pilot projects for port machinery aim to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
The Prime Minister also visited the Keihin Koyasu Shipyard, where he was briefed on Japan’s shipbuilding capabilities, maritime engineering, and maintenance technologies relevant to Fiji’s maritime sector.
The Prime Minister further toured Keihin Dock, a subsidiary of Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), a leader in Japan’s shipbuilding industry renowned for innovation, craftsmanship, and employee engagement. Since its establishment in 1968, the company has delivered over 150 vessels and maintains a strong market share, accounting for 30 percent of new small‑ship deliveries and 18 percent of tugboats nationwide.
Keihin Dock has played a pioneering role in maritime decarbonization, introducing Japan’s first hybrid tugboat in 2013, an LNG‑powered tugboat in 2015, and the world’s first ammonia‑fueled tugboat in 2024. With ammonia projected to account for up to 40 percent of marine fuel by 2050, the company is proactively addressing challenges related to toxicity, supply chain limitations, and regulatory alignment. Keihin Dock continues to position itself as a technological innovator and strategic contributor to Japan’s maritime future.
The Prime Minister and delegation were later hosted at a luncheon organized by Mr. Hiromitsu Takamatsu, President of Kyowa Shipping Co., Ltd., and joined by H.E. Rokuichiro Michii, Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji. The engagement provided a valuable platform for networking and strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, and shipping services. Kyowa Shipping, a close counterpart of Carpenters Fiji Limited, remains a strong supporter of the Fiji Embassy Tokyo’s outreach and exchanges.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
14/11/2025
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Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged the existing regional partnership under the Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting (PALM) and expressed Fiji’s interest in deepening engagement with Japan through this mechanism. In response, Prime Minister Takaichi emphasized the evolving cooperative relationship between Fiji and Japan, which supports the development needs of both countries. She also reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining a free and open international order based on the rule of law—a principle reflected in both the Ocean of Peace declaration and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) initiative.
The Summit was followed by a Signing Ceremony and Joint Press Statement, marking the adoption of the Lomavata–Kizuna Partnership Joint Communiqué on the Establishment of a Comprehensive Partnership between Japan and Fiji. This framework is designed to elevate bilateral relations and further strengthen cooperation and engagements in the respective development sectors.
The Lomavata–Kizuna Partnership represents a significant milestone, as the first agreement between Fiji and any country in Asia, welcoming a new chapter of deepened bilateral engagement.
Prior to the Summit, the Government of Japan hosted a Guard of Honor, symbolizing Japan’s enduring values of respect, recognition, and indicates Japan’s warm hospitality accorded to the Prime Minister and delegation at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tokyo, Japan.
(Courtesy of the Government of Japan – Prime Minister Rabuka and delegation meet with the Hon. Fukushiro Nukaga)
In his role as Chairman of the Japan–Fiji Parliamentary Friendship League, Hon. Speaker Nukaga remains a strong supporter of the Fiji Embassy Tokyo’s outreach and exchange initiatives, contributing significantly to the deepening of bilateral ties between Fiji and Japan.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
13/11/2025
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The Hon. Sitiveni L. Rabuka, Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, and External Trade, Civil Service and Public Enterprises, and delegation undertook a site visit to the National Agriculture Food Research Organization (NARO) in Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki Prefecture.
(Courtesy of the Fiji Government – Hon. Prime Minister Rabuka and delegation in NARO, Tsukuba)
The Prime Minister’s site visit included a briefing on Japan’s cutting-edge agricultural innovation and research initiatives. The visit provided an opportunity to explore avenues for enhanced agricultural cooperation, technology transfer, and capacity building to support Fiji’s food security and climate-resilient agriculture priorities.
As Japan’s premier institution for agricultural innovation and food science, NARO conducts advanced research in crop and livestock breeding, food safety, and environmental sustainability. NARO collaborates closely with academic institutions, such as the University of Tsukuba, through specialized graduate programs that focus on areas like ICT-supported farming and genetic resource preservation and hosts an annual exhibition on agriculture research and innovation, underscoring NARO’s commitment to bridging scientific research with societal needs, ensuring Japan’s agricultural sector remains innovative, sustainable, and globally competitive.
Prime Minister Rabuka also held a meeting with Dr. Yohei Sasakawa, Chairman of the Nippon Foundation, and discussed ongoing collaboration, humanitarian initiatives, and opportunities to further strengthen partnerships in areas of shared development interests.
The Fiji delegation was later hosted to a luncheon at the Fiji Embassy Tokyo (FET), joined by H.E. Ambassador Rokuichiro Michii and his Spouse, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation. The engagement provided a valuable platform for networking and for deepening cooperation across trade, investment, socio-economic development, and people-to-people exchanges. These agencies have been particularly supportive for Fiji in the lead-up to, during, and following Fiji’s participation at the recently concluded 2025 Osaka Expo in the Kansai region.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
13/11/2025
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(Courtesy of the Government of Japan – PS Nemani with Commissioner Maruyama following the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation on Technical Intern Training Program)
This cooperation reflects the enduring partnership between Fiji and Japan in strengthening Fiji’s workforce capabilities, acknowledging Japan’s global competitive edge and its reputation for an industrialized and innovative workforce sector.
The economic benefits of this agreement are significant, particularly in light of the ongoing cultural exchanges between Fiji and Japan, the expansion of people-to-people collaboration, and the deepening of bilateral cooperation. The established MoC represents a forward-looking step toward advancing both countries’ strategic interests and creating sustainable employment pathways for Fiji.
https://fijiembassy.jp/wp-content/uploads/Coat_of_arms_of_Fiji-200x241.png00Kelera Rakavosahttps://fijiembassy.jp/wp-content/uploads/Coat_of_arms_of_Fiji-200x241.pngKelera Rakavosa2025-11-13 15:34:002025-11-21 14:37:07Fiji – Japan Cooperation on Technical Intern Training Program
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.
(Photo Courtesy of the Fiji Government – Prime Minister Rabuka at the Guard of Honour before the bilateral with Minister Koizumi.)
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
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The Honourable Manoa Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, convened a series of high-level engagements during his official visit to Tokyo and Osaka. These included participation in the Trade and Promotion Mission and the EXPO2025 Osaka – Fiji National Day Week, held from 20 to 28 September 2025.
(Photo courtesy of the Ministry for Trade – Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica at the bilateral meeting with the Honourable Yoji Muto and the respective delegates from both Ministries)
The visit was a result of the Government of Japan’s commitment to host Fiji’s high-level representative as an official guest at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai region. The engagements included site visits, bilateral meetings, and community outreach initiatives aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties, enhancing bilateral cooperation, and promoting Fiji’s national interests across multiple sectors.
(Photo courtesy of the Ministry for Trade – Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica at the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), Tokyo)
From 20 to 23 September 2025, site visits were conducted at JA Tokatsu in Chiba Prefecture, focusing on Japan’s agricultural cooperatives, particularly cooperative models and agri-business practices. The delegation also visited a local roadside market showcasing Japan’s successful SME frameworks and community-based enterprise models. A tour of the Metropolitan Area Outer Underground Discharge Channel provided insights into Japan’s disaster management capabilities, particularly flood mitigation and preparedness infrastructure. Additional visits included the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), exploring innovation and digital cooperation, and the Chugoku Electric Power Company (CEPCO) facility in Hiroshima, where discussions focused on sustainable energy and infrastructure development.
While in Tokyo, Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica held one-on-one meetings with Japanese private sector stakeholders at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation on 22 September. These meetings, convened by the Government of Fiji with support from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), the Pacific Islands Centre (PIC), the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Nippon Foundation through the Ocean Policy Research Institute of the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (OPRI-SPF), focused on investment and trade opportunities. Senior representatives from twelve prominent Japanese companies participated, fostering strategic business partnerships and exploring avenues for regional cooperation and collaboration between Fiji and Japan.
(Photo courtesy of the Ministry for Trade – DPM Kamikamica at the one-on-one meetings with Japan’s private sector stakeholders held at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation)
The Trade and Investment Promotion in Tokyo also included a bilateral meeting with the Honourable Yoji Muto, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, where economic cooperation and trade facilitation were discussed. The Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation also paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Fukushiro Nukaga, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Japan-Fiji Parliamentary Friendship League, reaffirming parliamentary diplomacy.
(Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica at the Fiji Business Seminar and gift ceremony with Sasakawa Peace Foundation, Dr Mitsutaku Makino, President – Ocean Policy Research Institute.)
The second phase featured the Fiji Trade and Investment Promotion Seminar and Networking Luncheon, also held at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation on 24 September 2025. In his keynote address, Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s longstanding contributions to Fiji’s development, stating that “Fiji is open for business, and Japanese investment is warmly welcome.” Minister Kamikamica added that both Fiji and Japan could work together to build a stronger Pacific economy—one that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable. He also outlined recent government reforms aimed at fostering a business-friendly environment, including key initiatives for digital connectivity in the Pacific. Presentations from the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Investment Fiji, Tourism Fiji, and Fiji Airways highlighted sector-specific opportunities and reaffirmed Fiji’s readiness to engage with Japanese stakeholders. The seminar was attended by over 80 representatives from Japanese government agencies, private sector organizations, development partners, academic institutions, and members of the diplomatic corps, reflecting strong and growing interest in deepening engagement with Fiji.
(Photo courtesy of the Ministry for Trade – Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica with Hon Yuichiro Koga, Japan’s State Minister of Cabinet Office and State Minister, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, with delegation at the Expo site and tour of the Japan Pavilion)
The latter part of the week featured Fiji National Day celebrations held on 25 September at Expo 2025 Osaka, marking a milestone for Fiji’s presence at the international exposition. Following the celebration at the Expo site, an evening reception was hosted by the Government of Fiji and attended by Japanese government officials, business leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, Expo representatives, Fijian diaspora, and friends of Fiji. On 26 September, Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica and accompanied delegation participated in the Fiji-Japan Golf Tournament, organized by Fiji’s Honorary Consul in Osaka, Mr Takanori Okada, with support from the Fiji Embassy Tokyo and Fijian professional golfer Mr. Dinesh Chand. The golf tournament served as a platform for business networking. The Fiji Day week also included the Bula Fiji Rugby 7s Tournament, organized by the Fiji Embassy Tokyo, the Fiji Honorary Consular Corp, and the Fijian Community in Japan, with support from the Japan Rugby Football Union, Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd, Higashi Osaka City, and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation—celebrating and enhancing sporting diplomacy and cultural ties.
(Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica at the Narita International Airport)
The series of engagements concluded with a site visit and high-level business meeting at Narita International Airport on 28 September 2025. The Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation met with senior representatives from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), Narita International Airport Corporation, Sojitz Corporation, Narita Airport Business Co., Ltd., and JALUX Inc. Discussions focused on the introduction of Fijian Specified Skilled Workers (SSW) at Narita Airport under Japan’s SSW programme, and explored potential collaboration in airport operations, infrastructure development, and operational models.
(Photo courtesy of the Ministry for Trade – Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica at the tour of the Japan Pavilion, Osaka Expo site)
Fiji’s Head of Delegation Minister Kamikamica was supported by officials from the Ministry, Ambassador Filimone Waqabaca (Fiji’s Commissioner General for Expo 2025 Osaka), and Ms. Kelera Savu, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Fiji Embassy Tokyo. Additional support was provided by Honourable Faiyaz Koya, Member of Parliament, and Honourable Jese Saukuru, Fiji’s Minister for Youth and Sports, along with members of the sports delegation who also participated in the Expo 2025 Fiji National Day celebrations in Osaka. Minister Saukuru’s presence coincided with a visit to Fukuoka, where the delegation engaged in a sports collaboration programme at the invitation of the Fukuoka Prefectural Government.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
30 September 2025
https://fijiembassy.jp/wp-content/uploads/Coat_of_arms_of_Fiji-200x241.png00Kelera Rakavosahttps://fijiembassy.jp/wp-content/uploads/Coat_of_arms_of_Fiji-200x241.pngKelera Rakavosa2025-09-30 11:11:002025-11-19 11:38:11Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, SMEs, and Communications Hosts a Series of Key Engagements Promoting Fiji and Japan Bilateral Cooperation
The Embassy of the Republic of Fiji in Tokyo, with support from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB), successfully hosted the Fiji Business Seminar & Networking Lunch Program at Tokyo Innovation Base on Friday, 8 August 2025. The event aimed to promote Fiji as a prime destination for investment, tourism, and business collaboration with Japan.
(Opening Remarks delivered by CdA a.i. Kelera Savu)
In her welcoming address, Chargé d’Affaires Ms. Kelera Savu of the Fiji Embassy in Tokyo highlighted Japan’s longstanding support for Fiji’s development across key sectors, including education, healthcare, climate resilience, and regional growth—particularly through JICA’s environmental and social initiatives. She emphasized the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties through sister school programs, sports, and cultural exchanges, and reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to deepening cooperation in tourism, trade, and investment. The Embassy also celebrated the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation in legal affairs and expressed gratitude to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, METI, PIC, and JETRO for advancing economic relations, including through the PALM10 Memorandum and a successful business matching event.
(Distinguished presenters from key agencies including Fiji Airways, Tourism Fiji, Ministry of Economy Trade and Industry, Pacific Islands Center, Sasakawa Peace Foundation and Fiji Development Bank)
The seminar provided a platform for engaging potential investors, featuring key speakers from sectors such as tourism, aviation, trade, and development—including representatives from Tourism Fiji, Fiji Airways, Investment Fiji, METI Japan, Fiji Development Bank, and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation.
A summary of the presentations emphasized the need to promote tourism, connectivity, investment, and business partnerships in Fiji, with a focus on sustainable development, economic growth, and innovation across Fiji’s key sectors.
(Participants, presenters and Fijian Community following the networking session)
In his closing remarks, Mr. Ryuzo Saito, Director of the Pacific Islands Center, highlighted Fiji’s participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity, which offers a robust foundation for investment collaboration. He noted that Fiji’s favorable investment climate presents strong opportunities for Japanese investors.
The seminar further underscored Fiji’s strategic importance in the Asia-Pacific region. With direct flights between Fiji and Japan, the event promoted deeper bilateral ties and encouraged participants to engage in both formal discussions and a cultural networking session showcasing Fijian tradition and cuisine. The session provided a platform for guests to interact and explore future collaboration with Fiji in the areas of trade, investment, and tourism.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
8 August 2025
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The Ministry of Justice of Fiji and the Ministry of Justice of Japan convened a Strategic Dialogue on Law and Justice on 31 July 2025, reaffirming their shared commitment to the rule of law, human rights, and good governance.
(Hon Minister Turaga with H.E. Mr Keisuke Suzuki following the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation)
In his opening address, H.E. Tsutsumi Yoshiyuki, Assistant Vice-Minister of Justice of Japan, welcomed Hon. Siromi Turaga, Fiji’s Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General, and his delegation. He highlighted the inception of ST-Just—an initiative designed to foster legal cooperation through regular exchange and collaboration—and emphasized the dialogue’s potential to deepen bilateral ties grounded in mutual respect and shared values.
In response, Minister Turaga expressed his appreciation for Japan’s hospitality and reaffirmed Fiji’s dedication to advancing human rights, good governance, and judicial reform. He noted that the dialogue serves as a pivotal forum for developing practical and sustainable initiatives in law and justice, marking a milestone in the growing partnership between Japan and Fiji.
The programme also featured a signing ceremony for the Memorandum of Cooperation in the fields of law and justice. As Minister Turaga remarked, the Memorandum lays the foundation for a practical framework for cooperation. From corrections reform and youth engagement to legal capacity-building and digital transformation, the dialogue and MoC establish a technical partnership rooted in mutual respect and inspired by Japan’s commitment to legal innovation and integrity.
With participation from high-level officials and legal experts, the dialogue and Memorandum of Cooperation provided a platform for practical, forward-looking collaboration, affirming Fiji’s commitment to learning from Japan’s expertise in shaping sustainable justice cooperation.
As part of the Minister’s visitation programme in Tokyo, the seven-member delegation was hosted by Ms. Kelera Savu, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Embassy of the Republic of Fiji, for a lunch meeting on 30 July 2025. This gathering offered an opportunity for Minister Turaga to engage with key stakeholders and senior representatives from the Government of Japan and other key agencies focused on strengthening Fiji and Japan’s bilateral ties.
On 31 July 2025, the Minister and delegation also conducted a site visit to a correctional facility, facilitating exchanges and capacity-building in corrections management and rehabilitation, among other areas of mutual interest.
Before returning to Fiji, the delegation held a meeting with Mr. Filimone Waqabaca, CEO of the Fiji Development Bank and Commissioner-General for Fiji at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
2 August 2025
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