Fiji’s Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Pio Tikoduadua is using a high-level defence meeting in Japan to call for stronger, practical partnerships to help stabilise the Indo-Pacific amid intensifying geopolitical competition.
Speaking in an interview with The Yomiuri Shimbun, Tikoduadua said Japan has an important role to play in supporting Pacific priorities, particularly as major powers seek to expand their influence in the region. He warned that unchecked strategic rivalry — including China’s growing regional footprint — risks fragmenting the Indo-Pacific.
“Japan can play a stabilising role by staying consistent, practical and respectful of Pacific leadership,” he said, urging continued support for maritime safety and enforcement, disaster response readiness and regional institutions.
Tikoduadua made the remarks as he attends the Japan Pacific Islands Defense Dialogue (JPIDD) in Tokyo, which opened on Sunday and concludes on Tuesday.
Fiji is advocating for outcomes-focused discussions, with an emphasis on maritime security cooperation, disaster response and information sharing.
“I want practical discussions that improve outcomes on the water and in communities,” Tikoduadua said, adding that Fiji is keen to deepen cooperation in areas such as maritime data aggregation and disaster relief coordination.
He said long-term regional stability would depend on sustained partnerships grounded in mutual respect and Pacific-led priorities.
