Fiji and New Zealand Navy bank on similarities

The similarities between the Republic of Fiji Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy allow them to overcome their challenges.

This was revealed yesterday at their joint press conference at the Naval Base headquarters in Walu Bay, Suva between the Fiji Navy Chief, Captain (Navy) Humphrey Tawake and Maritime Component Commander, Royal New Zealand Navy, Commodore James Gilmour.

“We have so many things in common in between our two countries and two Navies as both countries are small in population but very large in terms of maritime space that we are responsible for,” Commodore Gilmour said.

Mr Tawake said Fiji and New Zealand Navy relationship has gone far way back since inception of Fiji Navy in 1975.

“We are glad that Commodore Gilmour is here with us for the 42nd anniversary,” Captain Tawake said. “The Royal New Zealand Navy vessel is here at its second home as well and we thank Commodore Gilmour for allowing Hawea to be here with us in order to protect our maritime space,” he said.

“They have also done 250 boarding which is a very significant number for us in terms of sea days and all other boarding they have conducted.

“There had been some infringements about the Fisheries and Customs and we are going to look HMNZS Hawea after that but we thank the Commodore for the great opportunity for the Fijian Navy and New Zealand Navy to work together.” Commodore Gilmour said it was indeed their honour to be here in Suva this week for the Fijian Navy’s 42nd anniversary. “Our ability to present Hawea to contribute to the national efforts is our honour and we are learning a lot as we go,” he said.