PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reiterated that Fiji’s first resident mission in Israel is a strategic step to deepen cooperation in areas such as security, agriculture, climate resilience, innovation, trade, and people-to-people links.
Amid criticisms from non-governmental organisations and political parties regarding the 17-member delegation he will take to Israel this month, Mr Rabuka said this mission was about constructive engagement.
“An embassy is not a blanket endorsement of another country’s policies, it is a bridge that allows Fiji to work directly with partners, share our Pacific perspectives, and pursue practical cooperation that benefits our people,” he said.
“The embassy will strengthen services for Fijians and deepen longstanding ties of friendship and cooperation between Fiji and Israel.
“This is a forward-looking step, a bridge of cooperation that advances Fiji’s interests, supports our values, and fosters dialogue and peace.”
Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya, who is also part of the delegation, said: “We will keep Fijians informed throughout the mission. Our focus is on practical outcomes, from modern irrigation and climate-smart agriculture to digital and communications cooperation that can improve services and resilience at home.”
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua said meetings with security counterparts would target training, technology exchange, and operational cooperation to make Fiji safer and more secure. “We will also advance follow up on maritime surveillance and related capability support.”