Japan vows to help Fiji
NEWLY appointed Japanese ambassador to Fiji Rokuichiro Michii says Japan stands committed to assisting Fiji to advance shared common values such as freedom, democracy, rule of law, and respect for human rights and the environment.
Speaking in Suva recently, Mr Michii said since Japan and Fiji established diplomatic relations in 1970, both countries had jointly continued to foster and strengthen growing relations.
“I look forward to closely working with the Government and people of Fiji in addressing priority areas such as climate change, sea level rise, environment, disaster management and contributing meaningfully to the wider sustainable development of Fiji,” he said.
He said that 2024 was a milestone for relations between Fiji, the Pacific Island Countries and Japan, and they would build on the progress since PALM9 in 2019 and looked ahead to
PALM 10 summit meeting in July this year.
Mr Michii said Fiji, Pacific Island countries, and Japan would strengthen collective efforts to tackle regional and global challenges in accordance with the 2050 Strategy.
These include climate change and natural disasters, protection of oceans and environment, business and economic development, technology and connectivity cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Most important element is to build trust amongst ourselves, and we all get connected, not through the 4G or 5G networks, but through hearts and minds, which help us collectively build cohesive societies for a brighter future for Fiji, the Pacific Island Countries, and the rest of the world.
“It is my privilege to reaffirm that Japan will continue its support for the sustainable development of Fiji in the years to come and stands in solidarity with the Government and people of Fiji on the common values shared by both countries.”