Foreign Affairs Minister Sakiasi Ditoka has held talks with his South Korean counterpart Cho Hyun in Seoul, with discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, energy security and climate change cooperation.
Ditoka is currently visiting South Korea as Fiji and Korea mark the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
His visit is also the first by a Fijian foreign minister to Seoul since September 2015.
During talks yesterday, Ditoka expressed Fiji’s interest in deepening cooperation with South Korea on energy supply chains amid growing concerns over global energy security.
He highlighted the impact of the volatile security situation in the Strait of Hormuz on countries across the Asia-Pacific region.
Cho agreed that establishing stable and resilient energy supply chains had become increasingly important.
The two ministers agreed to deepen cooperation in this area and maintain close consultations on energy security.
Discussions also covered South Korea’s cooperation with Fiji in healthcare and energy.
Cho said Seoul had been working to expand its engagement with Fiji in areas regarded as particularly valuable to the country.
Ditoka thanked South Korea for its assistance and sought continued engagement, particularly in addressing climate change.
The ministers also exchanged views on the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and its wider implications for the Pacific region.
They agreed to work together on consular matters, including efforts to protect South Korean nationals in Fiji.
The talks come as Fiji and South Korea seek to strengthen a diplomatic relationship spanning more than five decades.
