Fiji and Indonesia to Expand Trade, Tourism And Development Cooperation

As Fiji and Indonesia mark 52 years of diplomatic relations, both nations are looking to strengthen their partnership through greater economic engagement and practical development cooperation, recognising the opportunities to advance shared interests across the Asia-Pacific region.

These priorities were discussed during a courtesy call by Indonesia’s Ambassador to Fiji, His Excellency Dupito Simamora, to the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Ambassador Solo Mara, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Suva yesterday (03/11/2026).

The meeting highlighted the potential to expand trade, investment and tourism links, with Fiji’s strategic position as a regional hub offering opportunities to strengthen economic cooperation and connectivity with between the two nations and the wider Pacific.

Ambassador Mara acknowledged Indonesia’s longstanding development partnership with Fiji, particularly through the South-South and Triangular Cooperation framework, which provides valuable opportunities for technical expertise, knowledge exchange and capacity building.

Discussions also explored practical collaboration in infrastructure development, climate action, defence and security, disaster resilience, education, agriculture, fisheries, forestry and human resource development.

On the regional front, Ambassador Mara acknowledged Indonesia’s engagement under the Pacific Regional Architecture, providing support in navigating complex regional dynamics regarding sovereignty, governance, and diplomatic relations in the Blue Pacific.

Ambassador Simamora congratulated Ambassador Mara on his recent appointment and conveyed Indonesia’s commitment to building on the strong relationship between the two countries through continued dialogue and meaningful cooperation.

He also commended Fiji for its successful hosting of the Pre-COP meeting and expressed Indonesia’s support for Fiji’s climate resilience priorities ahead of COP31 in Türkiye.

Looking ahead, there is considerable scope to deepen cooperation in sectors such as climate resilience and financing, the blue economy and maritime governance under the South-South Cooperation.

Both sides recognized the important role of Fiji’s Embassy in Jakarta and the Indonesian Embassy in Suva in advancing these priorities and translating diplomatic engagement into tangible initiatives that support sustainable development, economic growth and improved livelihoods.

The discussions reflected the strength of Fiji–Indonesia relations and a shared commitment to ensuring that the partnership continues to deliver meaningful benefits for both countries and the wider Pacific region.