Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka has thanked the New Zealand Government for the development assistance it continues to provide to Fiji.
This message was conveyed during a reception held on the HMNZS Canterbury New Zealand navy vessel in Suva, yesterday (23/3/2023).
HMNZS Canterbury visited Fiji with nearly 300 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel, to conduct training for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief support in the Pacific and provide support to the Republic of Fiji Military training objectives.
On behalf of the Government and the people of Fiji, Prime Minister Rabuka conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Government and the people of New Zealand for their support to Fiji over the years.
He said Fiji is grateful to be able to help out New Zealand and Vanuatu during their time of need through deployment of personnels from Fiji to assist in the rebuilding efforts from the devastation caused by the recent cyclones.
At the same time, Prime Minister Rabuka also reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to work closely with the New Zealand Government in strengthening efforts for the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR).
He thanked the HMNZS Canterbury team for their collaboration in building stronger partnership with Fiji.
New Zealand High Commissioner to Fiji, Her Excellency Charlotte Darlow thanked the Fiji Government for its support to New Zealand in moments of great need.
She acknowledged the work of Fiji’s personnels deployed to help with the rebuilding efforts in NZ in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle.
High Commissioner Darlow said Fiji’s swift response to assist New Zealand, demonstrates the strength of our partnership and everlasting bonds of friendship.
The initiative also symbolises unwavering commitment and cooperation between Fiji-New Zealand in the area of Defence and Security.
A team of 33 personnel from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, the National Fire Authority, and the Fiji NDMO have been deployed to support the NZ Government’s response to Severe Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle.
Similarly, through Fiji Government’s second joint Humanitarian Response, a team has been deployed to assist in recovery efforts in Vanuatu following the aftermath of Tropical Cyclones Kevin and Judy.
