Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu, recently represented Fiji at the Indonesia-Pacific Cultural Synergy 2025 event held in Kupang, Indonesia. The event, which was fully funded by the Indonesian government, aimed to strengthen cultural connections and collaboration within the Pacific region, bringing together various ministers and cultural leaders.
Throughout this multi-day gathering, the Fijian delegation participated in an array of activities encompassing cultural exchanges, technical sessions, and crucial bilateral discussions. A focal point of Minister Vasu’s agenda was his engagement with Indonesia’s Minister for Culture, during which he articulated Fiji’s priorities for its iTaukei communities. Discussions revolved around vital themes such as enhancing cultural education for the youth, promoting innovation through creative industries and digitization, and exploring collaborative opportunities under UNESCO’s heritage projects.
Minister Vasu underscored the importance of increasing scholarship and vocational training avenues for Fijian youth in domains like arts, agriculture, and heritage, which could significantly impact their future prospects. Furthermore, the dialogues included critical discussions about reinstating visa-free travel for Fijian nationals, facilitating easier movement and cultural exchanges throughout the region.
As Fiji prepares to assume a leadership position in the Melanesian Spearhead Group in 2025, Minister Vasu assured that any new cultural collaborations resulting from the discussions would be presented to the Cabinet for consideration to ensure they align with Fiji’s national and regional interests.
This event is part of Indonesia’s wider cultural diplomacy strategy, evidenced by numerous recent cultural occasions that have united Pacific delegations in celebrating their shared heritage and strengthening regional ties. The commitment from both Fiji and Indonesia to deepen their partnership fosters a hopeful outlook for collaborative efforts, underscoring the significance of cultural connections and collective growth. Such initiatives are expected to enhance cooperation across various sectors, paving the way toward a more unified and prosperous Pacific community.