Reception on the UK Royal Navy Patrol Ship HMS TAMAR

Fiji and the United Kingdom continues to deepen in security, trade, climate resilience, and sustainable development—areas where shared interests align and practical outcomes matter – this was conveyed last night at the reception held aboard on the Royal Navy patrol ship HMS Tamar berthed at Suva Wharf. HMS Tamar is in Fiji for defense engagements as part of the United Kingdom’s long-term commitment to the Indo-Pacific.

The event was attended by the Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka, cabinet ministers, the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Minister for the Indo-Pacific and Equalities, Ms Seema Malhotra, Royal Navy officers, members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, and invited guests.

In his remarks, Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka acknowledged the United Kingdom’s growing engagement in the Pacific, noting that its presence reaffirms confidence and strengthens regional partnerships. He highlighted the importance of cooperation in maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and defense, emphasizing their direct impact on the safety and resilience of Pacific communities.

Hon. Ditoka conveyed Fiji’s commitment to the Pacific as an Ocean of Peace and recognized the United Kingdom as a key partner in advancing this vision. He also noted the strong historical ties between the two countries, including shared experiences that continue to underpin bilateral relations.

Further, Hon. Ditoka said that in a world where uncertainty is becoming more common, partnerships like this provides stability, when nations stand together respectfully with shared purpose, it will help secure not just our own interest but the peace and prosperity of the wider region.

Minister Malhotra also highlighted the importance of strengthening people-to-people links, education partnerships, and economic collaboration, noting that these connections form the foundation of a modern and forward-looking relationship.

Minister Malhotra said the new funding of £14 million will build on the UK’s long‑standing work across the Pacific through its flagship climate adaptation programme, Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA).

Through CARA, the UK is supporting community ‑focused projects across the region, including nature‑based solutions, stronger food systems, ocean protection and local preparedness, with initiatives under way in countries such as Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Tuvalu.

The reception aboard HMS Tamar served as a symbol of the enduring partnership between Fiji and the United Kingdom, reflecting shared values, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to peace and stability in the Pacific.