Japan-Fiji Summit Meeting and Dinner

(Cabinet Public Relations Office)

On 19 May 2015, from approximately 18.30 to 19.30, the Hon. Shinzo ABE, Prime Minister of Japan held a summit meeting with the Hon. Rear Admiral (Retired) Josaia Voreqe BAINIMARAMA, Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji in Tokyo, on the occasion of the visit to Japan by the latter. After the meeting, starting at 19.45, Prime Minister ABE hosted Prime Minister BAINIMARAMA to dinner.

Prime Minister ABE welcomed the visit, which is a first for a Fijian Prime Minister in 10 years. Prime Minister ABE remarked that he intended to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries, under the auspices of the visit by the Prime Minister of Fiji. He also praised Fiji continued prominence in the Pacific region, and its rising contribution in both, the regional and international levels.

In response, Prime Minister BAINIMARAMA stated that he was thankful for the significant contribution from Japan to the wider social and economic development of Fiji.  He added that he looked forward to building on the long-standing friendship between the two countries with his visit.

Prime Minister ABE pledged approximately 900 million yen (FJ$15 million) as Japan’s contribution to "the project for the Rehabilitation of the Medium Wave Radio Transmission" which contributes disaster prevention, and expressed Japan’s continued assistance towards Fiji’s own efforts for its prosperity. In response, Prime Minister BAINIMARAMA expressed his appreciation and indicated his determination on making the best use of Japan’s assistance for further development of Fiji.  

Both Prime Ministers ha ve confirmed that they will work in strong partnership for the success of PALM7 which will be held on 22 and 23 May in Iwaki city, Fukushima Prefecture.  They have also exchanged views on enhancing bilateral cooperation such as promotion of trade and investment, as well as people to people exchange between the two countries, in addition to deliberating on strengthening cooperation in the international community, in areas such as disaster management and climate change.

The two Prime Ministers have expressed mutual readiness to increase cooperation in international forums, including the United Nations. Prime Minister BAINIMARAMA has expressed his support for the peace and stability of the regional and international community in harmony with Japan’s initiative titled:  “Proactive Contribution to Peace” based on the principle of international cooperation.

At the dinner followed by the bilateral meeting, both Prime Ministers exchanged views on broad topics, including sports and tourism in a very warm and friendly atmosphere.