- Mr Speaker, Sir, before I make my Statement, I would like to dedicate this moment to remembering one of Fiji’s long serving civil servant, who left us a week ago. Mr Parmesh Chand was a dedicated civil servant. He was humble, considered and hard working. His calm demeanour touched many lives. His sense of duty shone through in everything he did to his final days. He faithfully carried out his duties to the fullest extent of his abilities. Mr Chand was one, who we can all attest, was proud of his heritage and his nation, carrying our noble banner blue until the very end. We thank his family for the life that he lived for Fiji. We know that life ends, Mr Speaker, but our responsibility to remember continues. Lest we forget.
- BACKGROUND
- Mr Speaker, Sir, during July 1st – 7th July 2025 I led a government of Fiji delegation on a High-Level Visit (HLV) to Australia. The Visit was undertaken following an invitation from the Government of Australia as part of the ongoing commitment to strengthening the renewed and elevated Fiji – Australia Vuvale Partnership.
- This marked my second official visit to Australia after the Guest of Government visit in October 2023. I was accompanied by the Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Minister for Immigration, Minister for Policing, Permanent Secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister, Permanent Secretary for Civil Service and Public Enterprise, and the Deputy Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. The Delegation was joined by Fiji’s High Commissioner to Australia, Fiji High Commission Officials in Canberra and an official providing media coverage. The Fiji High Commission, Canberra provided local support. Air and ground transportation, local costs and accommodation for the Prime Minister and delegation members during the official program was funded by the Australian Government.
- PROGRAMME
- On arrival in Canberra on 1st July, the Delegation was met by the Minister for Home Affairs, Arts, Cyber Security, Immigration and Citizenship, the Honourable Tony Burke MP. The meeting with Minister Burke, discussed avenues to develop closer cooperation on combatting drugs, strengthening law enforcement, maritime domain security and border management.
- A traditional Welcome to Country ceremony was accorded with traditional rites led by Ngunnawal Senior Elder Ms Violet Sheridan and representatives of the Ngunnawal people, the traditional custodians of the land on which the Australian capital sits. Also in attendance at the ceremony was Ms Tara Cheyne MLA, Attorney-General of the Australian Capital Territory who welcomed the Delegation to the capital.
- We paid a courtesy call on Her Excellency Ms Sam Mostyn, the Governor General of Australia at Government House. Governor General Mostyn acknowledged the enduring strength of the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership and welcomed Fiji’s support to regional solidarity and collaboration. Discussions spanned Australia and Fiji’s close economic partnership, infrastructure development, security and sports cooperation. Her Excellency acknowledged the significant contributions of the Fijian community in Australia.
- In life, Mr Speaker, we do things to help and even save others. On many occasions we do so to those we do not know, we have not met, and probably will never meet, but we do good deeds anyway, because it is the right thing to do. Whatever, it may be, we must remember the good people that helped us, that stood with us in those precarious moments that may define life and death for some.
- I hosted a reunion dinner with fellow Australian Defence College Alumni. In attendance at the dinner were, Col (Retd) Sarath Jayawardhana (Sri Lanka) and Mrs Jayawardhana, Mr Stephen Sailsbury (Australia), Ms Margaret Sailsbury. Guest representatives included His Excellency Andrew Needs, New Zealand High Commissioner to Australia and Ms Tiarn Brown, the eldest daughter of Hon. Mark Brown, Prime Minister of Cook Islands. The dinner provided an opportunity to convey my appreciation to the Governments of Sri Lanka, New Zealand and the Cook Islands for the successful Rescue Mission undertaken in 1988 where a freighter with 89 Cook Island nationals was hijacked by pirates in the Indian Ocean. Through an old acquaintance, a former classmate at the Indian Staff College in the 1970s, Sri Lankan Colonel (Retd) Sarath Jayawardhana, we were able to negotiate the release of the 89 Cook Islander crews and their safe return home through New Zealand.
- On 2nd July, the Delegation visited the Australian Border Force (ABF) Headquarters where we were received by the Commissioner of the ABF, Mr Gavin Reynolds AO and his leadership team. Both sides recognised the increasing intensity and complexity of transnational organised crime through the maritime and air domains within the Pacific region. We discussed avenues to improve Fiji’s border management system against emerging regional security challenges.
- The ABF Leadership Team provided an overview of ABF’s operations and measures of countering unlawful activities such as illegal, unregistered and unregulated (IUU) fishing within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the application of policy frameworks, domestic legislations and international conventions when responding to illegal activities within Australia’s maritime zones. In the process we discussed measures and avenues of collaboration, as no one country can, alone, deal with the issues of transnational organised crime.
- The Fiji side provided updates on Fiji’s Maritime Essential Services Centre (MESC), National Security Strategy and the proposed Maritime Security Policy. Both sides recognised the importance of timely exchange of information and agreed that in view of our overlapping interests on maritime security, stronger cooperation on border management and maritime security are needed.
- The meeting also explored ways to elevate border management with technology solutions, sharing of information and best practices. Work is now underway between Fiji Immigration and their ABF counterpart, on the Migration Enforcement and Response Intelligence Tool (MERIT). This work is linked to the Advance Passenger Information System and the Passenger Name Record (PNR), also in the current work programme.
- During the visit Fiji’s ePassport was commissioned and is now fully compatible with the Australian Smart-Gate system, enabling Fijian travellers to utilise automated border processing at major international airports in Australia.
- The Delegation was given a tour around the ABF Watch Floor, a combined 24/7, multi-agency operation within the ABF conducting real time monitoring and surveillance of Australia’s borders. Agencies included those from friendly nations.
- Following the meeting with the ABF, I had the opportunity to address the Australian media representatives and dignitaries at the National Press Club of Australia. In the address I reaffirmed Fiji’s foreign policy statements as presented in the Foreign Policy White Paper 2024 which set out a “family first” Pacific regionalism as its foundation. In discussing the Ocean of Peace Concept, I emphasized that Fiji’s highest strategic priority was a stable Indo-Pacific region, and the most significant security threat lies in the prospect of a region riven by division, insecurity and instability. The Ocean of Peace is Fiji’s contribution towards ensuring a peaceful and stable region in the midst of growing geopolitical tensions.
- On the Fiji and Australia Vuvale Partnership, and in acknowledging the growing cooperations between our two countries, the emerging regional and global security situation, our relationship needs to step-up.
- My address at the National Press Club focussed specifically on the Pacific as the Ocean of Peace. In recognition of the scope and strategic goals of the Ocean of Peace with the maturing Vuvale Partnership, I proposed that it is time to consider enhancing the Partnership with a security agreement or treaty.
- I acknowledged that my address and response to questions from the media at the National Press Club gained media traction within Australia and the wider Pacific region particularly my confirmation that the government will not agree to the establishment of a ‘foreign military base’ in Fiji.
- On the afternoon of 2nd July, the Delegation paid its respects at the Australian War Memorial. During the solemn Last Post Ceremony at the Commemorative Courtyard, we laid wreaths by the Pool of Reflection in remembrance of soldiers that had served and lost their lives in the call of duty, honouring their sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy today.
- In the evening, our High Commission hosted a Welcoming Reception at the Fiji High Commission in honour of our visit. In attendance were members of the Diplomatic Corp in Canberra, Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and members of the Fijian community.
- Following the Cocktail Reception, the Fijian Community in Canberra hosted the Delegation to a dinner and Talanoa Session. The interaction at the event was an opportunity to update the community in Canberra on the Government’s development progress and plans. The event also provided an opportunity for members of the diaspora to discuss issues directly with the Ministers.
- On 3rd July, the Delegation departed for Shoalwater Bay Training Area in Central Queensland where 129 Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) personnel are currently engaged in a five-month military exercise under Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. The Exercise is the largest combined military exercise by the Australian Defence Force involving 30,000 military personnel from 19 nations. The visit to Shoalwater Bay underscored the depth of the security cooperation between the Australian Defence Forces (ADF) and the RFMF.
- The RFMF contingent is part of a rotational company pilot, the first of its kind with any Pacific Defence Force. The arrangement enables ADF and RFMF personnel to integrate, collaborate and build collective capability prior to conducting a series of combined exercises at Talisman Sabre 2025.
- True comradeship was on full display as 129 RFMF personnel trained with their Australian counterparts. As part ofongoing military cooperation between Fiji and Australia the event includes joint training exercises aimed at enhancing interoperability, sharing tactical knowledge, strengthening regional security ties, learning from one another with mutual respect and shared purpose. During the visit, the Fiji Delegation also observed firsthand a live demonstration of an offensive training phase. At the heart of the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership, this bond reflects our deep commitment to one another, standing together and moving forward as one family. The pilot will inform options for potential future cooperation models.
- The visit was an opportunity impress on the Fijian Company the importance of service, loyalty and professionalism. As a former soldier, we know what such visits does as morale booster, reaffirming the troops dedication to serve. The visit to Shoalwater Bay concluded with singing and cheering from the troops.
- On 4th July, the Delegation visited the Pinkenba Hub in Brisbane. The Pinkenba Hub is a facility that supports the Pacific Policing Initiatives (PPI) and the Pacific Police Support Group by providing training and development opportunities, including secondments for police officers from across the Pacific. The Hub focuses on the enhancement of skills in policing leadership, management, administration, and operational coordination.
- The visit is in line with ongoing efforts to strengthen Fiji’s policing capabilities. It was also an opportunity to gain an inside view of the intent and content of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Solesolevaki Partnership and Police Cooperation that was signed by the Fiji Police Force (FPF) and the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in March this year (2025).
- The guided tour around the complex witnessed firsthand the advanced training facility, operational capabilities and collaborative initiatives supporting regional policing efforts.
- The Pinkenba Training Centre features operational safety and practice warehouse with state-of-the-art training capabilities, including a simulated house environment, multi-floor training area, ‘dark scenario’ space, and syndicate rooms for virtual training that reflect real-life emergency situations.
- These facilities can be reconfigured to replicate multiple environments and adapted to mirror current and emerging operational scenarios with multiple contingencies to enhance police preparedness.
- On our behalf, the Minister for Policing reaffirmed the strong bond, mutual trust and respect emanating from the Vuvale Partnership. He also conveyed the Delegation’s gratitude to the AFP leadership for the informative visit acknowledging the strong commitment shared by both countries in addressing common challenges confronting the two nations and the broader Pacific region.
- The Delegation also visited Austal Shipbuilding, an Australian-based global ship building company and defence prime contractor that specialises in the design, construction and support of defence and commercial vessels. Given the ongoing preparations for the development of ports in Suva and Lautoka, the visit to Austal Shipbuilding provided an opportunity to observe key areas of operation that could contribute to the Government’s effort to rebuild Fiji’s port, shipbuilding and ship maintenance industries.
- On the afternoon of 4th July, the Delegation was hosted to a Talanoa Session and Afternoon Tea with the Fijian Community in Brisbane. I thank the Community for their goodwill with a Traditional Welcome Ceremony was that was followed by a Talanoa Session. Understandably, topics discussed focused largely on visa, immigration, and PALM Scheme matters.
- Following the Fijian Community event, we met with an Australian entrepreneur (Mr Ian Malouf) a leading provider of waste removal, waste management and waste transfer services in Australia. The meeting considered various opportunities for waste management, waste removal and disposal and energy generation in Fiji.
- The Delegation arrived in Newcastle on 5th July where we were met by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Dr Ross Kerridge, Mayor of Port Stephens, Ms Leah Anderson and Director of Pacific Sports Section, DFAT, Ms Kate Coffey. A gun firing ceremony was held at Fort Scratchley, Newcastle as part of the welcoming ceremony.
- A bilateral between myself and the Australian Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Honourable Pat Conroy MP, that evening was held at the Crystalbrook Kingsley Hotel. At the meeting we explored avenues to scaling up the Vuvale Partnership and likely outcomes of the High-Level Visit.
- Both sides acknowledged the significant progress in which security cooperation has come to date, new commitments ahead and the need for an umbrella arrangement under which new undertakings could be prudently coordinated. In response to my public proposal for a security treaty at the National Press Club in Canberra, Hon Conroy remarked that Australia fully embraces the idea and will work with Fiji towards that goal.
- Further, the Australian Government responded publicly to standing with Fiji on the Ocean of Peace and supporting its operationalisation. These are substantive milestones that only come from good faith and trust within the Vuvale.
- The Meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to Australia taking the lead, outlining the key outcomes of the High-Level Visit and underscoring the areas to which Australia has affirmed its commitment. Two days later the Australian side issued a Media Statement to that effect.
- On 6th July, the Delegation attended a Church Service followed by a Talanoa Session and lunch with the Fijian Community from Newcastle and surrounding areas at the Newcastle City Hall. The Talanoa Session was also attended by Fijian PALM Workers from the surrounding regions who were given the opportunity to raise issues.
- Following the community engagement, the Prime Minister and Delegation departed for the McDonald Jones Stadium to watch the Fiji-Australia rugby competition for the Vuvale Bowl. There, we were honoured by the presence of Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Both Prime Ministers were accorded the honour of greeting the players before the commencement of the match and presented the winning team with the Vuvale Bowl at its conclusion.
- The Delegation departed Newcastle for Fiji on 7th
- OUTCOME OF THE OFFICIAL HIGH-LEVEL VISIT
- In outlining the outcomes of the High-Level Visit, I want, firstly, to acknowledge with deep respect, goodwill and support of the Government of Australia in the organising and support of the visit. To Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Hon Tony Burke, and Hon Pat Conroy Senator, the Hon Nita Green (Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Tourism and Pacific Island Affairs), Reece Kershaw (AFP Commissioner) who made time to receive us and engage with what we will look back in time as a watershed moment in our relationship.
3.1.1 Mr Speaker, I offer my sincere thanks to the Australian Government for its Commitments under the Vuvale Partnership
As part of the next steps under the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership, Australia will support Fiji in implementing the following priorities:
- Implementation of the National Security Strategy – Funding two (2) technical advisers to lead the implementation of Fiji’s new National Security Strategy;
- Cooperation with the Fiji Police Force – Embedding Australian Federal Police Officers in the Fiji Police Force to extend policing cooperation, with the initial focus in the Counter Narcotics Bureau;
- Strengthening Border Management – Providing $12Million (FJD$17.6 million) to strengthen border security by improving shipping container screening at Lautoka and Suva Ports;
- Budget Support – Increasing Australia’s bilateral development assistance to Fiji by $40Million (FJD $56Million) over four years, taking the total to just under $500Million (FJD $734million) from 2025 to 2029; and
- Security Agreement – Agreed to the security treaty and a draft to be jointly developed as basis of further consultation.
3.1.2 Mr Speaker, Additional Areas for Further Cooperation to be Explored include:
Commitment to support the operationalising of the Ocean of Peace principles, including family first Pacific regionalism
Delivering a modern, cyber-secure ICT Border Management System to support Fijians and visitors.
- Cooperation on Countering Transnational Organised Crime
Enhancing cooperation on transnational organised crime, with a focus on responding to illicit drugs and opportunities for greater information sharing and surveillance efforts.
Strengthening policing capability through training and infrastructure development.
Tackling HIV/AIDS, building on Australia’s $7.1 million (FJD 10.4 million) investment in Fiji’s health system.
- Technical Support in Maritime Security
Expanding maritime security, shipbuilding and maintenance through technical collaboration,
Growing economic opportunities through skills development and employment pathways.
- Defence and Police Attache at the Fiji High Commission, Canberra
Engagements during the visit reaffirmed the importance of close and sustained cooperation between our defence and law enforcement agencies.
Considering the escalating challenges posed by transnational organised crime and the growing collaboration in the security sector, both parties acknowledged the value of enhancing institutional linkages.
On this basis, the appointment of a Defence Attaché and a Police Attaché to the Fiji High Commission in Canberra was proposed. These deployments will strengthen liaison, operational coordination and partnership with respective Australian counterparts. The relevant line Ministries will coordinate the operational details.
- Both sides recognised the need for an implementation framework with timelines, resource requirements and monitoring arrangements. This is part of the overall Vuvale Partnership Implementation matrix that is under discussion at the Senior Officials level.
- CONCLUSION
- Mr Speaker, the High-Level Visit provided a valuable opportunity to reaffirm and scale up our mutual commitment to enhancing security across land and maritime domains. The outcomes of the engagement are highly positive, underpinned by the constructive dialogue and meaningful commitments reached between both sides.
- As a way forward, it was agreed that both Governments through their respective diplomatic missions, government agencies, and key stakeholders continue to engage in collaborative discussions aimed at identifying and advancing further opportunities to reinforce the Partnership in the spirit of Vuvale for regional stability and shared prosperity.
I thank you Mr Speaker.
