Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has updated Parliament on a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Development Cooperation with Vanuatu. This MOU, signed on September 10, 2025, during the Pacific Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands, reaffirms the strong bond between the two Melanesian nations and demonstrates a renewed commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation in diverse sectors.
The collaboration under this MOU covers critical areas such as tourism, agriculture, customs, public works, disaster risk management, humanitarian assistance, labor mobility, volunteerism, sports, and infrastructure development. Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized that this MOU is a practical framework aimed at on-the-ground collaboration and not merely a symbolic gesture. To ensure effective coordination and implementation of initiatives, senior official-level political consultations will be established to formulate a detailed plan.
This bilateral agreement aligns with Fiji’s commitment to regional solidarity and is consistent with the objectives of Fiji’s National Vision, the region’s Ocean of Peace Declaration, and the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. By strengthening Pacific partnerships, promoting collective self-resilience, and advancing sustainable development, the MOU also addresses global challenges such as the ongoing climate crisis, economic volatility, and geopolitical shifts.
The MOU with Vanuatu parallels Fiji’s broader regional engagements aimed at fostering cooperation within the Pacific. It reflects a common vision and determination to tackle shared priorities, underscoring the importance of collaboration in navigating complex global challenges. Whether through trade, security, or climate change initiatives, these collective efforts highlight a hopeful trajectory for regional stability and growth.