Ministry’s Church Service Calls for Service with Faith and Unity
18/02/2026
Hon. Ditoka Receives Courtesy Call from UNESCO Regional Director and REP for Pacific
20/02/2026Published On: 19/02/2026
Fiji and New Zealand share deep historical ties, people to people connections and a commitment to a stable, prosperous, and resilient Pacific region with our families, economies and our futures closely interconnected.
This message was conveyed yesterday at the commemoration of the Waitangi Day organised by the New Zealand High Commission in Suva. This year marks 186 years since the first signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi – an agreement between Maroi and the Crown – grounded in partnership, respect, and shared responsibility to work forward together.
The program was attended by the Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka, senior government officials, members of diplomatic corps, and invited and distinguished guests.
In his remarks, the New Zealand High Commissioner, His Excellency Greg Andrews highlighted that Fiji-NZ cooperation extends to practical work that helps build healthy, climate resilient communities here in Fiji and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
“Together we are strengthening essential services, from the co-designed refurbishment of primary health centres to increasing access to affordable, resilient housing for low-income families.
“And in entirely different sphere of cooperation, our trade continues to grow, mostly driven by the increasing success of Fijian businesses selling to New Zealand and I look forward to working together to reach our $2billion two-way trade target even earlier than the 2030 date our Prime Ministers set us.”
High Commissioner Andrews thanked Fiji for the support to NZ’s rebuilding efforts especially after Christchurch earthquake and Cyclone Gabrielle.
“I would like to acknowledge the leadership shown by Minister Ditoka in arranging this deployment and I can assure you it is something that the people and Government of New Zealand will not forget.”
Speaking at the occasion, the Chief of Protocol, Ms Kiti Temo said, “As we join New Zealand in celebrating this important occasion, the Government of Fiji proudly reaffirms its commitment to working hand in hand with New Zealand, guided by mutual respect, enduring friendship and solidarity.”
Ms. Kiti highlighted that Fiji and NZ are natural partners, with NZ being one of the first countries to establish its diplomatic relations with Fiji following our independence in 1970 and was also the first to appoint a High Commissioner designate to Fiji. Similarly, one of Fiji’s first Diplomatic Missions to be established was the Fiji’s High Commission in Wellington, NZ in 1978.
