Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, right, met with US Under Secretary of State in Lisa Kenna in Washington DC. 8 February 2025. Photo: Fiji Government
Fiji's Prime Minister has pointed out the potential implications of US executive orders on Fiji and the Pacific region during a meeting with the US Under Secretary of State.
With the Bilateral Framework for Technical and Economic Cooperation Agreement and the establishment of the USAID regional office in Suva, Rabuka hopes that the 90-day freeze by the Trump administration will not hamper plans to advance USAID programs in the region.
In his meeting with Lisa Kenna in Washington DC, Rabuka emphasised the need for ongoing dialogue.
He also highlighted Fiji's and US partnerships in key areas, such as trade and investment, with the most recent being security cooperation.
Rabuka said Fiji has benefited from many programs and joint collaborations, such as the signing of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement between the US Department of Defence and Fiji's Ministry of Home Affairs.
Other initiatives include the International Military Education and Training and the 2018 Ship Rider Agreement that enables the protection of our marine resources, and the collaboration under the International Narcotics Law Enforcement Affairs.
He spoke about Fiji's tourism and agriculture sectors, expressing the nation's eagerness to continue to explore opportunities and strengthen trade relations further.
Rabuka said Fiji looks forward to working with the US in ensuring that our relations continue to grow from strength to strength.
Despite the difference in size, Rabuka he said the two nations' common stand for freedom, justice and the rule of law, will mobilise like-minded nations to coalesce and cooperate.
Rabuka, the first Pacific leader to visit the US after Trump took office, acknowledged the steps taken by the US to strengthen its engagements in the region.
Fiji community in California
He took the opportunity to meet with the Fijian diaspora in Santa Rosa, California.
The four-hour gathering provided an opportunity for Rabuka to highlight key national developments at home, and at the same time, informed the diaspora on the coalition government's plans for the next two years.
He also acknowledged the contributions of Fijians overseas in strengthening Fiji's economy through remittances.
He reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting its citizens worldwide and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve services for Fijians living abroad.
