FIJI is moving swiftly to safeguard its peacekeeping future amid reports the White House is considering slashing US contributions to United Nations peacekeeping operations.
Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua confirmed Government was closely monitoring the situation and already taking diplomatic steps to ensure the country’s voice is heard in Washington.
“We’re aware of the White House’s proposal to eliminate US contributions to UN peacekeeping,” Mr Tikoduadua said.
“That’s precisely why our presence in Washington is important.”
Mr Tikoduadua’s remarks come as the Trump administration talks about axing funding to the UN’s peacekeeping arm, an issue that could have significant knock-on effects for countries like Fiji, which has long contributed troops to missions around the world.
“This is not a done deal,” Mr Tikoduadua said.
“The US Congress has yet to approve the proposal, and bipartisan support for peacekeeping still exists.
“But it would be a mistake to wait and see.”
Mr Tikoduadua stressed his visit to the US capital this month was part of a broader strategic mission to defend the value of Fiji’s role in global peacekeeping.
“We’re engaging now to ensure Fiji’s voice – and the value of small state peacekeeping contributions – is heard before decisions are finalised.”
He said that even as uncertainty looms, Fiji was planning ahead.
“Should any global funding shifts occur, Fiji is already assessing alternative pathways and strengthening our relationships with other donors and regional partners.”
The minister is currently on an official mission that spans the Middle East, Europe and North America, with key stops in the Golan Heights, Berlin and Washington DC.
