Commitment towards partnership
PRESIDENT Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says the recent re-establishment of a New Zealand Trade Commissioner to the Pacific is a pivotal moment for the business council.
The president told delegates of the Fiji New Zealand and New Zealand Fiji Business Councils joint conference on Denarau Island that this role had been vacant for quite some time and having this position filled now was both timely as Fiji’s continues its economic recovery.
“The New Zealand Trade Commissioner to the Pacific works closely with New Zealand businesses with pre-existing connections with Fiji as well as with those hoping to establish a relationship with Fiji,” Ratu Wiliame said.
“The appointment of a new New Zealand Trade Commissioner to the Pacific demonstrates New Zealand’s commitment to the ‘Duavata’ partnership between Fiji and New Zealand.
“This also opens new frontiers of cooperation for our two countries in terms of trade and development and this relationship has led to the promotion of a business mentoring program for FNZBC members – in collaboration with the Learn Fast Centre, based in
New Zealand.”
Ratu Wiliame also acknowledged the work of both councils over the past three decades, adding Government has gone to extraordinary lengths to support our farmers in managing what could only be called a price-increase crisis for input costs.
“There’s an opportunity for more diversification that taps the talents of farmers, our hospitable climate and our islands’ large swathes of arable land.
“Our Blue Pacific is also home to many untapped opportunities in the ocean space- that is why Fiji has set itself on a path to become the world’s bluest economy.”
New Zealand, the president adds, has a wealth of expertise and resources in recycling, renewable energy, coastal protection, and aquaculture.
“Let’s bring more these minds to Fiji.
“Fiji’s ocean covers 1.3 million square kilometres of ocean ––including some of the world’s richest reefs –– and we are committed to sustainably managing every inch of it.
“That makes for 1.3 million reasons these councils should be exploring avenues for exchange of information, expertise and related resources in the ocean arena. It is this century’s greatest opportunity.” of