Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has announced a further NZ$11.1 million of climate change support for Fiji to respond to the impacts of climate change.
The announcement comes during the four-day visit of Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka to New Zealand.
Both Prime Ministers met in Wellington this morning, reaffirming the strength and spirit of New Zealand and Fiji’s relationship, as outlined in the Duavata Relationship Statement of Partnership.
Prime Minister Hipkins says, “New Zealand and Fiji are connected by a kinship forged in Pacific culture, identity and interests, founded on our long history, friendship, and mutual respect.”
“We had an inspired discussion on how we can further cooperate on combating the effects of climate change. It’s clear it remains the single greatest threat to lives and livelihoods in the Pacific region.
“Many New Zealanders have experienced first hand through Cyclone Gabrielle the devastation it causes communities, and this additional funding will assist Fiji to deliver community-based climate adaptation and mitigation projects.”
Prime Minister Rabuka said this official visit marked a significant milestone in the New Zealand–Fiji relationship, clearly demonstrating a commitment to elevating how we work together.
“The Duavata Relationship Statement of Partnership is the platform from which we are able to approach issues of mutual interest and importance to Fiji and New Zealand, such as, climate change, social well-being, regional security, and building economic resilience.”
“This additional funding from New Zealand is very welcome. It will support Fiji to implement discrete projects in renewable energy, infrastructure resilience, climate policy, and capacity strengthening,” says Prime Minister Rabuka.
As well as bilateral priorities, Prime Ministers Hipkins and Rabuka also discussed their vision for the region, in line with the goals set out in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent by Pacific Leaders during the Pacific Islands Forum in Fiji, last year.
