Fiji and Indonesia convened a bilateral meeting to deepen cooperation for accelerated economic recovery through the global challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate crisis. A meeting was held yesterday evening between Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Her Excellency, Retno L.P. Marsudi, as she visits our shores this week.The Prime Minister recognised Indonesia’s G20 Presidency on prioritizing issues of importance to Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to working closely with the Government of Indonesia through the G20 to gain meaningful actions in pursuing a sustainable, greener, and bluer and better future for the people of Fiji, the Pacific and beyond.Minister Marsudi said Fiji is an important development partner for Indonesia and it stands ready to support Fiji’s efforts on achieving resilient economic recovery.She thanked Prime Minister Bainimarama for the fruitful discussions on issues of mutual priorities, which will elevate Fiji-Indonesia relations to greater heights.On regional updates, the Prime Minister mentioned Fiji looks forward to Indonesia’s support for the “2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent” which is now the foundation document for the Pacific’s regional development.He acknowledged Indonesia’s support for Fiji’s rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of natural disasters and response to the COVID-19 pandemic through the provision of relief supplies and personal protective equipment (PPEs). Indonesia has also assisted Fiji under the ‘Adopt a School Programme’, for the renovation and rebuilding works for Queen Victoria School.Honourable Minister, Her Excellency, Retno L.P. Marsudi appreciated the warm hospitality of the Fijian Government and the people of Fiji.The ongoing cooperation in areas of defense and policing, capacity-building training, agriculture, fisheries and forestry, and disaster management including climate mitigation, were discussed. The discussion at the meeting included potential opportunities for increased engagement in sectors of economic recovery, climate resilience, oceans, trade and investment, tourism, technology, agriculture, and health, amongst others. Prime Minister Bainimarama welcomed Minister Marsudi to Fiji and thanked her for the visit, which signifies the progressive cooperation between the two nations. A diplomatic reception and cultural event were also organised by the Indonesian Embassy in Fiji, to commemorate Indonesia’s 77th Independence Day. Fiji and Indonesia have enjoyed 45 years of cordial relations both at the regional and international fora.
