Fiji Advances Development Cooperation with Wallis and Futuna

Fiji this week welcomed an official Government delegation from the French Territory of Wallis and Futuna, marking a significant step forward in strengthening development cooperation between our two Pacific neighbours. The delegation was accorded a full traditional welcoming ceremony on 21 February at the Tanoa Hotel in Nadi, led by Fiji’s Roving Ambassador to the Pacific, Mr. William Toganivalu, with the ceremony performed by the Vanua of Sabeto.

The President of the Assembly, His Excellency Munipoese Muli’aka’aka expressed sincere appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to the delegation, noting that the traditional welcome symbolised not only shared heritage, but also our collective commitment to deeper collaboration across the Pacific.

Discussions during the visit are focused on operationalising the Declaration of Intent on Development Cooperation, signed last year, and identifying practical areas for partnership. These include cooperation in climate resilience, renewable energy solutions for small island contexts, maritime connectivity, education and skills development, sustainable fisheries management, and public sector capacity building.

As a regional hub, Fiji remains well positioned to support Wallis and Futuna through technical exchanges, institutional partnerships, and coordinated engagement with regional organisations. Both sides are exploring mechanisms to facilitate knowledge-sharing, strengthen people-to-people links, and leverage existing regional frameworks to deliver tangible outcomes for their communities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade looks forward to translating this growing partnership into concrete development initiatives that advance sustainable growth, resilience, and shared prosperity for both Fiji and Wallis and Futuna.

Ambassade de France aux Fidji – France in Fiji