Ambassador-designate Mr. Kemueli Naiqama met with H.E. Fukushiro Nukaga, Speaker to the House of Representatives and Chair of the Fiji-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Association with the meeting held on 21 April, 2026.
(Ambassador-designate Naiqama with H.E. Nukaga)
The meeting reaffirmed a shared commitment to strengthen Japan–Fiji relations over the Ambassador’s three‑year tenure in Japan. As proposed by H.E. Nukaga, both sides agreed to maintain continuous engagement through meetings, enabling regular updates on priority areas and to address ongoing cooperation. The Hon. Speaker of the House of Representatives emphasized the value of past exchanges, including long-term youth and professional visits, and expressed interest in continuing collaboration through existing mechanisms such as JICA’s ongoing official development assistance (ODA) and capacity building programmes to Fiji.
Discussions further highlighted several promising areas for future cooperation. These included tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, and statistical capacity-building, with the Japan Government expecting to receive from Fiji a list of priority projects. Regional and institutional linkages—particularly with Ibaraki Prefecture and the University of Tsukuba—were identified as realistic avenues for technical cooperation, academic partnerships, and human resource exchange.
Both sides agreed that cultural and sports diplomacy emerged as a strong pillar to develop rugby and volleyball and to deepen people‑to‑people ties. Fiji’s strong rugby culture and Japan’s interest in expanding sports exchanges align well with existing annual tournament schedules, creating natural opportunities for collaboration. These exchanges are expected to complement broader diplomatic and development initiatives.
His Excellency Mr. Nukaga in his closing remarks called for a forward looking collaboration with the Ambassador based on the areas of priorities for Fiji and Japan’s mutual understanding and bilateral cooperation agenda.
Ambassador-designate Mr. Kemueli Naiqama attended the 15th Fukushima Memorial Event to Commemorate the Victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake in Prayer for Revitalization held in Fukushima City on 11 March, 2026.
The memorial ceremony opened with expressions of gratitude to Her Excellency the Prime Minister Takaichi, the Diplomatic Corp, Government Officials’ and other invited representatives. The program included words of remembrance, followed by a one‑minute silent prayer at 2:46 p.m. The Fukushima Governor H.E. Masao Uchibori reaffirmed prayers for the victims and renewed dedication to the reconstruction process.
The address by the Fukushima Governor, Prime Minister Takaichi and notable representatives reflected on the 2011 Fukushima disaster, honoring the victims and their families while acknowledging the deep and lasting impact of the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident. The gathering highlighted progress, including shrinking evacuation zones, record numbers of tourists and new residents, and strong growth in local industries and exports, citing these as visible results of ongoing efforts. The common messages from distinguished representatives noted the remaining challenges, including continued displacement, the need for community rebuilding, nuclear decommissioning, a notably reduced population, and technical advancements in preparation for natural disasters. Marking the 150th anniversary of Fukushima’s prefectural government, the prefecture will continue to carry forward a tradition of perseverance and mutual support, reaffirming its commitment to restoring the region’s beauty and vitality.
The Great East Japan Earthquake occurred on March 11, 2011, when a magnitude 9.0 earthquake struck off the Tōhoku coast, triggering a massive tsunami that devastated coastal communities, caused nearly 20,000 deaths, and led to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. The disaster destroyed homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods across northeastern Japan, creating long-term displacement and requiring extensive recovery and reconstruction efforts.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
12 March 2026
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 Rakavosa2026-03-12 22:52:002026-08-20 23:04:06Ambassador-designate Naiqama Commemorates the 15th Fukushima Memorial Ceremony
The Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Pio Tikoduadua, undertook an official working visit to Japan to attend the 3rd Japan–Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue (JPIDD), held from 21 to 25 February 2026.
(Hon. Tikoduadua with the Minister for Defense of Japan, H.E. Shinjirō Koizumi)
The Honourable Minister’s visit was made possible at the invitation of the Government of Japan’s Ministry of Defense, noting that Japan had initially hosted the first and second JPIDD. For the 2026 Dialogue, approximately 31 countries were represented and the dialogue commenced with a welcoming reception on 22 February, 2026.
Hon. Minister Tikoduadua was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary for Defense, Mr. Mason Smith; the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Commander, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai; and support staff.
On Monday, 23 February 2026, the Government of the Republic of Fiji and the Government of Japan held its bilateral meeting between Hon. Minister Tikoduadua and the Minister for Defense of Japan, H.E. Shinjirō Koizumi. The meeting reaffirmed Fiji–Japan defence cooperation, underscoring the importance of maritime security, joint training, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and medical support. These longstanding areas of collaboration continue to strengthen the defence and security partnership between the respective countries grounded on mutual respect, shared values and trust.
As maritime nations, both sides emphasized the critical importance of maritime security cooperation. In November 2025, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the Republic of Fiji Navy conducted bilateral training, including the first onboard inspection exercise in Suva and a regional program hosted in Fiji for Pacific Island Countries (PICs) to advance maritime and naval collaboration.
(Hon. Minister and delegation with the RFMF cadets)
In April 2025, the Government of Japan awarded two scholarships to RFMF cadets to undertake undergraduate studies at Japan’s National Defense Academy (NDA) in Yokosuka, with another cadet scheduled to enrol in April this year, 2026. The Ministers also discussed Japan’s plan to launch the Next Generation Leadership Security Program, which will invite young defence officials from the PICs who are expected to become future policymakers. Further areas of cooperation included potential collaboration in promoting regional safety in view of the growing concern on drugs, aligned to efforts to promote peace and security in Fiji and the region.
The Ministers welcomed deeper cooperation, with both parties expressing commitment to implementing the areas of collaboration identified during the bilateral meeting focused on expanding human resource development, strengthening people-to-people engagement and expanding institutional collaboration.
Following the bilateral discussions, the Minister and delegation also attended the JPIDD sessions which highlighted the evolving security environment across the Pacific and Southeast Asia, describing the region as facing three interconnected challenges: climate change, threats to maritime order, and the growing use of economic, technological, and information domains as instruments of coercion. Japan’s Minister Koizumi described the JPIDD meeting as a historic platform bringing Southeast Asian and Pacific leaders together for the first time to strengthen cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
During the forum, Minister Tikoduadua underscored the importance of strengthening maritime domain awareness, rapid response capabilities, skilled personnel, and resilient infrastructure to safeguard Fiji’s vast maritime territory. He outlined Fiji’s ongoing efforts to develop its first Maritime Security Strategy, integrating national agencies responsible for defense, law enforcement, fisheries, customs, border control, and disaster response. Participants at the dialogue reaffirmed the need for stronger regional partnerships, improved information-sharing, enhanced maritime law enforcement, and greater investment in climate-resilient infrastructure. The forum concluded with a collective commitment to deeper cooperation and solidarity among participating member countries, recognizing Japan’s longstanding support and leadership in strengthening regional preparedness, resilience, and maritime security.
The Fiji delegation was later hosted by the Ambassador-designate, Mr. Kemueli Naiqama, in a dinner reception held at Fiji House.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
26 February 2026
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Ambassador‑designate of the Embassy of the Republic of Fiji to Japan, Mr. Kemueli Naiqama, held his first official meeting with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in Tokyo, paying a courtesy call on Ambassador Tadayuki Miyashita, Chief of Protocol, accompanied by Deputy Chief of Protocol, Mr. Hiroaki Ichiba.
(Ambassador-designate Naiqama and Ambassador Miyashita following their introductory meeting)
The meeting marked the beginning of Ambassador‑designate Naiqama’s diplomatic engagement in Japan and provided an opportunity to outline shared priorities for strengthening Fiji–Japan relations.
During the meeting, Ambassador‑designate Naiqama expressed his sincere appreciation for the warm welcome extended by MoFA and noted the honour of undertaking his first diplomatic posting in Japan. He described the appointment as a significant milestone in his civil service career and reflected on his past visits to Japan for cultural and professional exchanges, reaffirming his deep respect for Japan and its people.
Ambassador Naiqama outlined several priority areas for advancing Fiji–Japan cooperation in the areas of economic and socio-economic collaboration, people-to-people engagements, tourism, education, health and development and cultural connections.
In response, Ambassador Miyashita reaffirmed MoFA’s support for the Ambassador‑designate, noting that the Ministry will coordinate the Credential Ceremony to His Majesty the Emperor at a later date. He encouraged Ambassador‑designate Naiqama to continue the work undertaken by his predecessors in deepening bilateral cooperation between both countries. He also recommended visiting prefectures outside of Tokyo to experience Japan’s diverse culture, cuisine, and landscape, noting that spring offers ideal conditions for regional travel. Both Ambassadors acknowledged the need to pursue common goals and strengthen partnerships based on respect, trust and mutual understanding. The meeting further underscored the shared commitment of Fiji and Japan to deepen cooperation across key sectors, strengthen cultural and people‑to‑people ties, and advance regional collaboration. Ambassador‑designate Naiqama’s engagement with MoFA marks an important step in further elevating Fiji–Japan relations.
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
25 February 2026
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 Rakavosa2026-02-25 21:02:002026-08-20 21:13:05Ambassador‑designate Naiqama Holds Introductory Meeting with Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Minister for Public Works, Communications, Meteorological Service and Transport, Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, made an official working visit to Japan from 4 to 11 February 2026.
(Hon. Tuisawau with H.E. Yasuyuki Sakai, State Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism)
The visit aimed to strengthen Fiji–Japan bilateral cooperation focused on improving Fiji’s development sectors including infrastructure, energy, transport, development finance, and cultural diplomacy.
During the visit, the Minister held high‑level meetings with Japan’s development and economic institutions, including the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Japan International Cooperation System (JICS), Pacific Islands Centre, Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), and the Cabinet Office’s Space Development Strategy Headquarters. The discussions pursued common areas of engagements such as water security, renewable energy expansion, maritime assets, bridge rehabilitation, and airport modernization. The meetings held reaffirmed commitment to supporting and strengthening Fiji’s capacity through technical assistance and investment facilitation.
The Minister’s visit programme included a courtesy call on H.E. Yasuyuki Sakai, State Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The discussions reaffirmed Fiji and Japan’s long‑standing cooperation, which has continued since the 1970s. The Ministers expressed mutual appreciation and emphasized their intention to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors aligned on pursuing concrete, ministry‑level cooperation.
(Nabara Hydro Power Station, Hiroshima)
The Minister also met with Japanese companies including Chugoku Electric Power, JFE Engineering, and Hazama Ando to review ongoing and proposed projects. Site visits in Hiroshima provided insights into hydropower operations, grid management, and renewable‑energy integration. Fiji’s infrastructure challenges were discussed at length noting concerns on the ground with respect to aging water systems, skills shortages, and rising energy demands.
The Fiji Embassy hosted a networking luncheon and community talanoa session, where the Minister highlighted national development priorities, Fiji’s tourism recovery, and growing people‑to‑people ties with Japan in rugby, and cultural exchanges. The visit emphasized Fiji’s long‑standing partnership with Japan and advanced concrete pathways for future cooperation in resilient infrastructure, climate preparedness, and sustainable development.
(Minister Tuisawau joined by CdA a.i. Ms. Kelera Savu and the APIC staff)
The Minister’s visit was made possible at the invitation of The Association for Promotion of International Cooperation (APIC). The APIC was established in September 1985 to facilitate official development assistance (ODA) and has been engaged in various development cooperation projects for the purpose of promoting Japan’s ties with the international community, the Carribean and Pacific Island Countries (PICs).
End.
Embassy of the Republic of Fiji
TOKYO
12 February 2026
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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
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 Rakavosa2025-11-14 18:41:002025-12-02 15:45:22Prime Minister Rabuka Strengthens Partnership with Hon. Kaneko, Japan’s Minister for Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
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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