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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

The Honourable Manoa Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, met with the Honourable Akiyoshi Kato, Parliamentary Vice Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), at METI Headquarters in Tokyo.

(l-r: Parliamentary Vice Minister Kato with Deputy Prime Minister Kamikamica)

This high-level visit is recognized as a symbol of both countries’ commitment to deepening their bilateral relationship and ensuring its continued growth. The earlier meeting with the Honourable Speaker Nukaga, held in the lead-up to this engagement, was also acknowledged and appreciated.

Key issues discussed included strengthening bilateral cooperation, advancing economic development, and enhancing people-to-people ties. The two leaders also discussed business matchmaking initiatives and start-up activities that emerged from the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders’ Meeting (PALM10), held in July 2024. These discussions underscored Japan’s ongoing commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the Pacific region and highlighted the potential for increased investment opportunities.

The Honourable Deputy Prime Minister expressed his gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their steadfast support of Fiji. He also acknowledged the Ministry’s continued dedication, particularly through its collaboration with agencies such as Investment Fiji, in advancing business opportunities. As Fiji and Japan celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, the Deputy Prime Minister recognized the longstanding support and assistance provided since the establishment of these ties.

Looking ahead to Expo 2025 Osaka, for which both Ministers hold national responsibilities, there is optimism for further consultation and collaboration. Honourable Minister Kamikamica is scheduled to visit Osaka during Fiji’s National Day week in September 2025. He also extended a formal invitation to Honourable Parliamentary Vice Minister Kato to visit Fiji in the near future.

End.

Embassy of the Republic of Fiji

TOKYO

29 May 2025