Fiji-Vanuatu progress Maritime Boundary Delimitation work
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Prime Minister Rabuka pays tribute to fallen heroes at Matanikau Memorial site
09/09/2025Published On: 09/09/2025
Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka met with the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), Her Excellency Dr Hilda Heini yesterday, where he reaffirmed the deep bonds of friendship, solidarity, and shared aspirations between the two Pacific nations.
The meeting, held at the margins of the 54th session of the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands, provided an opportunity for both leaders to further discuss issues of common interest.
At the outset, Prime Minister Rabuka reaffirmed Fiji’s solidarity with the Government and people of the RMI as they undertake the rebuilding of their Parliament (Nitijela), which was razed down last month.
He also extended condolences on the passing of former President Christopher Loeak, remembering him as a true friend of Fiji and a committed champion of the Blue Pacific Continent.
During the meeting, both leaders discussed opportunities to deepen trade and economic cooperation.
On climate change, Prime Minister Rabuka commended the Marshall Islands for its strong global advocacy and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
He offered Fiji’s assistance to the RMI through the possibility of making land available for potential relocation of its citizens who are severely impacted by rising sea level.
The leaders also reflected on the importance of peace and security in the Pacific. Prime Minister Rabuka emphasised that the Ocean of Peace initiative underscores the region’s shared responsibility to safeguard peace in every aspect of our lives.
In response, Her Excellency expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Rabuka for his sympathies following the tragic fire that destroyed the Nitijela, RMI’s Parliament building, on 26 August 2025.
She thanked Fiji for its continued support and solidarity, as well as for the opportunity to formalize a Memorandum of Agreement on development cooperation during the meeting.
The President further acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Fijian community living and working in the Marshall Islands, particularly in health and education, and expressed hope for increased exchanges to benefit both peoples.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing cooperation, resilience, and regional peace, underpinned by their common vision for a united and prosperous Blue Pacific.
