Fiji-Switzerland aim to strengthen development cooperation
SWITZERLAND aims to strengthen cooperation with Fiji and the Pacific region at both bilateral and multilateral platforms through increased engagements in climate change, regional peace and security, and provision of capacity building training programs.
The was discussed at a courtesy call paid to the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua from the non-resident Ambassador of Switzerland to Fiji, Viktor Vavricka and Swiss Special Envoy for the Pacific Region, Emmanuel Bichet.
A meeting held recently at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters was an opportunity for both sides to deliberate on the prospects for strengthened relations.
Asst Minister Qereqeretabua acknowledged the ongoing cooperation and shared commitment between the two nations on important issues such as climate change and oceans, peace and prosperity.
On the same note, the Assistant Minister thanked Ambassador and Special Envoy for the discussions and combined efforts undertaken to strengthen Fiji-Switzerland relations, at both bilateral and regional level.
Ambassador Vavricka reasserted Switzerland’s commitment to further advance bilateral relations with Fiji as being the hub of the Pacific region.
He spoke on the prospects to collaborate with Fiji through provision of vocational and educational training scholarships, with new innovation and research programs tailored to the needs of Fiji particularly in climate adaptation and disaster risk resilience.
Ambassador Vavricka acknowledged Fiji’s strong leadership in the region and opportunities to collaborate on initiatives aimed at improving people’s livelihood and sustainable development.
The two nations established diplomatic relations in 1989.
Fiji benefits indirectly from funding provided by the Swiss Government to regional and international organisations such as South Pacific Regional Environmental Programme (SPREP), Asian Development Bank and the Green Climate Fund, significantly in the area of climate change.
The Swiss Embassy in New Zealand is accredited to Fiji.