Fiji’s Defence and Veteran Affairs Minister, Pio Tikoduadua, has underscored the crucial part Japan can play in fostering stability within the Indo-Pacific region. In a recent written interview with The Yomiuri Shimbun, Tikoduadua expressed the need for consistent and practical support from Japan, especially amid escalating strategic competition from China, which he views as a potential source of fragmentation among Pacific nations.
Ahead of the Japan Pacific Islands Defence Dialogue (JPIDD) taking place in Tokyo, Tikoduadua emphasized the importance of Japan prioritizing maritime safety, bolstering enforcement capabilities, and enhancing disaster response readiness. He called for constructive discussions that would bring tangible benefits to communities throughout the region, advocating for an approach that addresses pressing regional issues.
Fiji, one of only three Pacific island nations with a military, plays a significant role in promoting regional cooperation and security. Tikoduadua’s concerns are heightened by the recent security agreements formed by certain Pacific nations, such as the Solomon Islands with China, which may undermine regional unity. He warned that these developments could complicate efforts toward achieving a collective regional consensus.
On the bilateral front, Fiji and Japan have been deepening their cooperation, with Japan set to provide Fiji with patrol vessels and various defense technologies through its Official Security Assistance program. Tikoduadua lauded Japan’s support as “transparent and aligned with our priorities,” urging Japan to persist in its engagement with the Pacific region.
Tikoduadua’s comments convey a hopeful vision for continued regional collaboration, highlighting the significance of sustained partnerships to secure a stable future amidst the shifting geopolitical landscape. This collaborative effort represents a commitment to a united and resilient Indo-Pacific, promising potential benefits not just for Fiji but for the entire region as they navigate the complexities of international relations.