Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka has reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to ongoing cooperation and dialogue with the Holy See to promote shared goals of global peace, solidarity and humanity.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while receiving a courtesy visit from the Non-Resident Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See to Fiji, His Excellency Archbishop Gábor Pintér in his office on Thursday (07-08-2025).
Sharing 47 years of diplomatic relations, Hon. Rabuka acknowledged the contributions of the Catholic Church to the life and development of Fiji and the region.
Prime Minister Rabuka noted the arrival of the first Catholic missioners on the island of Lakeba in Lau in 1844, stating that their legacy continues to shape the spiritual, cultural and social fabric of the community today.
He commended the Holy See for its continuous commitment to climate change, heightening the alarm about the irreversible harm to people and planet, and emphasising that the most vulnerable are paying the highest price.
“I acknowledge the Holy See/Vatican for challenging world leaders to commit to binding targets to slow climate change before it’s too late,” the Prime Minister stated.
He asserted that Fiji, along with other small island states, will continue to amplify the calls for climate action.
Acknowledging the importance of religious diplomacy between Fiji and the Holy See, Hon. Rabuka highlighted its role in maintaining social cohesion and promoting international relations, religious tolerance and building international partnerships.
He assured Archbishop Pintér of Fiji’s support in elevating their relations while addressing poverty, human rights, gender equality, economic development, and environment sustainability.
Archbishop Pintér expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for the wonderful opportunity to meet and discuss matters of mutual interest concerning the Catholic community and the nation.
