A new direct flight route and a burgeoning economic partnership are reinforcing the familial bonds, known as Vuvale, between Australia and Fiji, pointing toward a future filled with mutual prosperity.
At the 29th Australia Business Forum, Assistant Minister for Pacific Island Affairs, Nita Green, underscored the enduring dedication of both countries to enhance economic growth and shared success. “You often hear our Prime Minister talk about Fiji and Australia as Vuvale, which means family. We say it often because it is true,” she noted, drawing on her origins in Cairns and the deep-rooted connections that exist within the communities of both nations.
The recently initiated Fiji Airways direct flight between Cairns and Nadi is anticipated to bring an extra 53,000 travelers each year, adding to the nearly half a million Australians who journey to Fiji annually. “It’s connections like these that we will celebrate tonight and cultivate over the next few days: as partners, and as family,” Green stated confidently.
The Assistant Minister emphasized the shared values of the Fijian and Australian people in their efforts to build a peaceful, interconnected, and prosperous region. “We share a responsibility to work together, to help each other, to grow our economic partnership, and together, improve the economic and social well-being of our communities and our people,” she declared.
In light of contemporary global challenges, Green highlighted the significance of the trade ministers’ meeting, which reaffirmed a commitment to transparent and rules-based trade practices. She stressed the necessity of amplifying Pacific voices and backing local initiatives, referencing the 5,000 Fijian workers engaged in Australia under the PALM scheme, along with the nearly 5,000 Fijian students pursuing education in Australia. Additionally, she spoke on the development partnerships aimed at enhancing health, education, gender equality, and social protections for vulnerable populations.
Concluding her remarks, Green emphasized, “This is because we are connected. And we are more than just partners. We are family.” The strengthening transportation links and collaborative economic initiatives between Australia and Fiji are set to open doors for shared achievements, reinforcing a hopeful outlook on the future of their partnership.