Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Dr. Raijeli Taga, recently visited the Fiji High Commission in Wellington, New Zealand, where she engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Fiji and New Zealand. Dr. Taga received a warm welcome from Fiji’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, and the staff of the High Commission.
The discussions during the visit focused on enhancing service delivery for Fijians residing in New Zealand, facilitating better support for the diaspora community. The High Commission presented an overview of various development support programs, including cooperation in defense and policing, the Labor Mobility Scheme, and trade and investment initiatives. These efforts are geared towards fostering sustainable relations between the two nations.
Dr. Taga also took the opportunity to assess the operational needs of Fiji’s mission properties in New Zealand. She visited the four mission locations and discussed with trade officers in Auckland their priority areas and ongoing projects. A significant part of the dialogue included plans to establish a Fiji Consulate Office in Auckland. This consulate will serve as a one-stop center for both trade assistance and consular services, which is a notable step towards better support for the Fijian community in New Zealand.
The Fiji High Commission underscored its dedication to enhancing service delivery and representing the interests of the Fiji Government. By strengthening people-to-people relations and providing consular support, particularly to the over 100,000 Fijians living in New Zealand, these efforts reflect a commitment to improving the welfare and connection of the Fijian diaspora in Aotearoa.
This visit symbolizes a significant move towards further cooperation and support for Fijians abroad, showcasing the importance of international relations in fostering community well-being.