Fiji and Cook Islands strengthen relations

The Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Honourable Lenora Qereqeretabua met with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of Cook Islands, Honourable Tingika Elikana at the Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) headquarters in Suva on Friday 15th August 2025.

The meeting demonstrated a strong collaboration and friendship between the two nations and our shared commitment to regional peace and prosperity.

The discussions reaffirmed commitment by Fiji and the Cook Islands on the implementation of the Development Cooperation Agreement (DCA) signed in 2023, with focus on strengthening strategic engagements in economy and trade, air and sea connectivity, labour mobility, and diaspora engagements.

Hon. Qereqeretabua thanked the Cook Islands for its ongoing collaboration and commitment to strengthen bilateral relations with Fiji. The Assistant Minister expressed optimism that the relations have enormous potential to grow further in key areas of development and mutual priorities. She extended her appreciation to the Cook Islands for the opportunity given to Fiji to be represented at the commemoration of 60th Constitution Day Ceremony in Rarotonga in Cook Islands, last week, stating it was an honor for her to be part of the historic event.

In response, Honourable Tingika Elikana acknowledged the continued cooperation between the two nations and commitment to further enhance the relations through dialogue.

Following the meeting, the officials from both the countries proceeded to a commemorative tree🌿 planting event held at Thurston Gardens in Suva. The initiative symbolized enduring friendship and cooperation between Fiji and the Cook Islands, on the occasion of the Cook Islands 60th anniversary of self-government.