Australia’s commendable efforts through swift assistance to Fiji is a testament of our unbreakable bonds of friendship and exemplary collaboration achieved through the Vuvale Partnership.
In a phone call with his counterpart, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama conveyed his appreciation to the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Australian Government for their remarkable support to Fiji at this time of great need.
Mr Bainimarama said Fiji is grateful for Australia’s efficient response in providing 320,000 doses of Australian manufactured AstraZeneca vaccines. This support has been mobilised immediately after Prime Minister Morrison’s commitment to assist Fiji with 1 million doses of vaccines.
The collective assistance from Australia, New Zealand and India will enable eligible population to be fully vaccinated. So far, Fiji has administered first doses to 272,354 individuals since the beginning of the vaccination campaign and second doses to 38,031 individuals; 46% of adults in Fiji have received one dose, and 6.5% are now fully vaccinated.
Mr Bainimarama acknowledged Australia’s enduring support in providing Personal Protective Equipment and deployment of Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT) officials who are working closely with Fiji’s Health care professionals to trace and contain COVID-19.
Australia has also rendered support through the AUD$26million in direct budget support to assist the Fijian Government in prudently managing the socioeconomic challenges facing Fiji at present. This in addition to Australia’s support to Fiji through direct budget support totaling AUD$35 million (approximately FJD$55 million).
Mr Bainimarama reiterated that challenges posed by the pandemic reinforced the need for enhanced cooperation and opportunities to work in solidarity to support our collective response to health, security and economic recovery.
Reflecting on regional developments, the two Prime Ministers also discussed the current priorities in the region and the opportunity for the next Pacific Forum Leaders meeting.
Mr Bainimarama also conveyed Fiji’s well wishes to Mr Morrison and our Australian Vuvale and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to continue working with Australia and all development partners in collectively charting a progressive path for rebuilding and recovery in the region.
