Discussions to Strengthen Relations

In commemorating 38 years of diplomatic relations, Fiji and Venezuela reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their relations, through their shared interests and priorities.

This was made possible through a virtual meeting held on Tuesday between the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, Sugar Industry and Acting Permanent Secretary, Foreign Affairs, Yogesh Karan and Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs for Asia, Middle East and Oceania, of Venezuela, Ruben Dario Molina and Venezuela’s Head of Mission to Australia Daniel Gasparri-Rey and Minister Counsellor Antonio Morillo.

The two countries acknowledged the potential for enhanced cooperation and strengthened international solidarity in addressing challenges imposed by COVID-19.

Given that business nowadays is largely virtual, engagements between our two countries are just a click away.

Reflecting on Venezuela’s role as observer member in the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF), Mr Karan said PIDF remains an important avenue for Venezuela to engage with the region and explore avenues for greater inter-regional cooperation.

Mr Karan said this would be a milestone for Fiji and the region, as we currently do not have any diplomatic representation from Latin America, in Fiji and the region.

In response, Venezuela vice-minister Molina conveyed appreciation to Fiji for the opportunity to engage in further dialogue that will be instrumental in enhancing the levels of engagements between the two nations as they recognise their 38 years of bilateral relations.