AUSTRALIA will support Fiji in strengthening its border security through the installation of a new border management system under the Vuvale Partnership.
Australian High Commissioner to Fiji Peter Roberts said the initiative was part of Australia’s continued support for Fiji in addressing border security challenges and transnational crime.
Speaking at the official opening of the Nadi International Airport CCTV Capability and Multi-Purpose Room last week, Mr Roberts said two Australian Border Force officers were based in Suva, with another two stationed in Nadi, to support the Fijian Government.
“To me that shows the sort of partnership that we need in order to address the challenges that we are facing together,” he said.
Mr Roberts said Australia was proud to have supported enhanced CCTV capabilities at Nadi International Airport, including the construction of a control room in partnership with the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS) and the Australian Border Force.
He described the investment as a practical step towards strengthening Fiji’s border security.
FRCS chief executive officer Udit Singh said the need for stronger border security was becoming increasingly important as the region faced more complex threats, including illicit trafficking, smuggling and transnational organised crime.
“Our success depends on strong collaboration, effective information sharing, and a coordinated approach to border security,” he said.
Mr Singh said the new system would also improve coordination between partner agencies and support more timely decision-making.
“It will enhance our situational awareness, strengthen frontline operations, and improve our ability to identify, assess, and respond to emerging risks.”
Australian High Commissioner to Fiji Peter Roberts, middle, FRCS chief executive officer Udit Singh (backrow — second from left) and Immigration permanent secretary Aliki Salusalu, (beside Mr Singh) with senior executives of FRCS and Australian Border Force delegates. Picture: ELENA VUCUKULA
