The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence conducted a visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, focusing on Fiji’s foreign policy initiatives. This engagement is part of the Committee’s responsibility to interact with governmental institutions that shape and enact the nation’s foreign policy.
The visit followed a prior presentation to Parliament, where senior officials from the Ministry presented the Annual Reports for the years 2019 to 2020 and 2020 to 2021. The Committee was received by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Sakiasi Ditoka, along with Permanent Secretary Dr. Raijeli Taga and other senior officials from the Ministry.
During the visit, Committee members were briefed on the Ministry’s initiatives aimed at promoting Fiji’s national interests through various bilateral, regional, and international efforts. Key discussion points included the status of Fiji’s diplomatic relationships, regional cooperation, participation in international bodies, trade and economic diplomacy, as well as consular services available to Fijians abroad.
Further insights were provided regarding the Ministry’s performance in recent financial years, particularly its response during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing endeavors to bolster regional partnerships that align with Fiji’s developmental priorities. Members of the Committee had the opportunity to observe the Ministry’s daily operations and interact directly with diplomats, enhancing their understanding of foreign relations management and the implementation of commitments articulated in the Ministry’s Annual Reports.
This visit underscores the importance of effective diplomatic engagement for Fiji, especially in light of ongoing global challenges and the need to strengthen international partnerships.