Hon. Qereqeretabua Meets with ICRC Director for Asia Pacific

The Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua, today received a courtesy call from the Regional Director for Asia-Pacific at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Mr. Régis Savioz, who is visiting from Geneva, Switzerland.

Mr. Savioz was accompanied by the ICRC Head of Regional Delegation for the Pacific, Ms. Megan Rock, and the ICRC Regional Legal Adviser for the Pacific, Ms. Hannah Crothers.

Established in 1863, the International Committee of the Red Cross is the founding institution of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Guided by the principles of impartiality, neutrality, and independence, the ICRC carries out its humanitarian mandate by protecting the lives and dignity of people affected by armed conflict and situations of violence, while providing assistance to those in need.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to discuss areas of mutual interest, including humanitarian action in the Pacific, the protection of vulnerable communities, and Fiji’s engagement with international humanitarian mechanisms.

During the discussions, Hon. Qereqeretabua reaffirmed that Fiji continues to support and uphold its obligations under the Geneva Conventions and remains firmly committed to the principles of international humanitarian law. She acknowledged the important role played by the ICRC in promoting respect for these principles and in supporting humanitarian efforts across the world.

Both parties also exchanged views on the evolving humanitarian landscape in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly the impacts of climate change, natural disasters, and displacement on Pacific Island communities. Discussions further explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation between the Government of Fiji and the ICRC in areas such as capacity building, humanitarian response, and the continued promotion of international humanitarian law.