Wale and Rabuka reaffirm Pacific unity, stronger regional cooperation and closer Solomon Islands-Fiji ties
Prime Minister Matthew Wale and Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka have emphasized the importance of a stronger, more unified Pacific voice during their bilateral meeting in Suva today.
The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional unity and Pacific solidarity, emphasizing the need for collective leadership in addressing common challenges.
As current Chair of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), Prime Minister Wale stressed that Pacific leaders must take a proactive and strategic approach in shaping the region’s future.
“Solomon Islands is committed to a secure and stable region through unity and Pacific solidarity,” Prime Minister Wale said.
Discussions also covered key issues within the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), with Prime Minister Wale acknowledging Fiji’s leadership as current MSG Chair.
On economic cooperation, Prime Minister Wale reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ support for ongoing discussions on the future direction of the MSG Trade Agreement.
“Solomon Islands supports and has signed the MSG Free Trade Agreement 3 concluded in 2016, which aims to establish MSG as a free trade area,” he said.
He noted that while the Agreement has served the region well over the past three decades, it must continue to evolve in response to changing economic realities and global trade patterns.
At the bilateral level, Prime Minister Wale recognized Fiji as a key strategic partner.
“Our friendship has been strengthened through close cooperation in education, security, health partnerships, and cultural exchange, underpinned by strong historical people-to-people connections,” he said.
Both leaders also agreed to further enhance air services between the two countries.
In response, Prime Minister Rabuka said the traditional welcome accorded to Prime Minister Wale was fitting for a leader deeply committed to the Pacific region.
He emphasized that the collective voice of Pacific leaders must continue to drive the aspirations of Pacific peoples.
Prime Minister Rabuka added that Fiji looks forward to supporting initiatives led by the current PIF Chair, which will be further discussed at the upcoming Forum meeting in Palau.
PRESS RELEASE
