Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka met Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape on the margins of the inaugural Melanesian Ocean Summit at APEC Haus in Port Moresby yesterday.
According to a Fiji Government statement, the meeting reaffirmed the strong partnership between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, with both leaders discussing regional cooperation, trade and shared Pacific priorities.
Mr Rabuka thanked the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for hosting the summit, describing the initiative as timely and important as Pacific nations seek greater leadership in protecting ocean resources.
The leaders reflected on the historical and cultural links between the two countries, including the contributions of Fijian missionaries in Papua New Guinea and the sacrifice of Fijian soldiers during World War II in Bougainville.
Mr Rabuka also acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s support following Fiji’s decision to reopen its diplomatic mission in Port Moresby in 2024, saying the move had created new opportunities for cooperation.
The meeting included discussions on a proposed Fiji–Papua New Guinea Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
Mr Rabuka also briefed Mr Marape on Fiji’s efforts to repatriate the remains of Fiji’s only Victoria Cross recipient, the late Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu, who is buried at Bitapaka War Cemetery in Rabaul.
The two leaders also discussed regional energy security, trade opportunities and the impacts of global conflicts on Pacific economies.
Mr Rabuka thanked Papua New Guinea for supporting Fiji’s proposed Ocean of Peace Declaration and sought backing for a regional statement advocating global peace amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Melanesian solidarity and advancing regional cooperation for the Pacific’s prosperity, resilience and security.
