President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu officially appointed two new ambassadors at a ceremony held at State House today. Mr. Jesoni Vitusagavulu has been designated as Fiji’s Ambassador to the State of Israel, while Mr. Laitia Tamata has taken on the role of Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and Other International Organizations (PRUNOG).
The event was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, along with family members of the newly appointed ambassadors, marking a significant moment for Fiji’s diplomatic representation.
Mr. Vitusagavulu brings a wealth of diplomatic and economic development experience to his new position. He previously served as Fiji’s Ambassador to the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 2005 to 2007, during which he rebranded the Fiji Embassy in Washington, D.C. and secured crucial support from various foundations. He was instrumental in creating job opportunities for Fijian workers in Canada.
On the other hand, Mr. Tamata is a seasoned development practitioner and legal adviser with specialties in international law, human rights, and environmental law. His expertise is further enhanced by his training in international diplomacy during the late 1980s and his involvement in international operations, such as with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. Currently, he serves as a Senior Manager at the Fiji National University, where he shares his extensive knowledge through lectures in law-related subjects.
These appointments underscore Fiji’s commitment to strengthening its international relations and tackle pressing global issues. With their strong backgrounds, both ambassadors are poised to contribute significantly to Fiji’s presence on the international stage.