Presentation of Credentials Strengthens Fiji-Portugal Partnership

Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN), His Excellency Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini formally presented his credentials as Fiji’s Non-Resident Ambassador to the President of the Portuguese Republic His Excellency Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa at the Presidential Palace in Lisbon on Monday 9th February 2026.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Tarakinikini conveyed warm greetings from the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji, Honourable Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, and the people of Fiji. President de Sousa graciously expressed his hope that President Ratu Lalabalavu will one day visit Portugal, underscoring the mutual desire to deepen the friendship between our two nations.

Ambassador Tarakinikini was accompanied by Mrs. Amele Tarakinikini for this significant occasion. Also presenting credentials during the same ceremony was His Eminence Cardinal Andrés Carrascosa Coso, the Apostolic Nuncio and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Lisbon, highlighting the diplomatic milestone.

Shared Ocean Priorities Unite Fiji and Portugal
This historic appointment opens a new chapter in Fiji-Portugal relations, building on our already strong partnership at the multilateral level. Both nations share deep connections to the ocean and a commitment to its protection and sustainable use.

As active participants in global ocean governance, Fiji and Portugal have consistently collaborated on critical issues including climate change resilience, ocean conservation, sustainable blue economy development, and maritime security. Portugal’s leadership in the Atlantic and Fiji’s stewardship in the Pacific position both countries as natural partners in advancing ocean-based solutions to the climate crisis.

The formalization of diplomatic relations through this ambassadorial appointment will strengthen bilateral cooperation on ocean sustainability, climate finance mechanisms, digital technology and the protection of our shared maritime heritage. Both nations recognize that the health of our oceans is fundamental to the survival and prosperity of island and coastal communities worldwide.
Ambassador Tarakinikini brings extensive experience in international diplomacy and security to this new role, currently serving as Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Chair of the Pacific Small Island Developing States in New York including as Council member for the Pacific constituency at the Global Environment Facility.

This credential presentation marks an important step forward in ensuring that Fiji and Portugal collaborate closely to protect our ocean and planet for future generations.

Portugal’s Outreach to UN Diplomatic Community
Ambassador Tarakinikini is in Portugal alongside eleven other UN Permanent Representatives from New York on an official visit sponsored and hosted by the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This invitation reflects Portugal’s commitment to strengthen multilateral partnerships and engage directly with the global diplomatic community at the United Nations.