Ministry Welcomes New Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Trade

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade (MFAET) today warmly welcomed its new Permanent Secretary, Mr Solo Mara, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Suva.

Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Honourable Sakiasi Ditoka, together with the Ministry’s management and staff, welcomed Mr Mara and wished him every success as he assumes leadership of the Ministry.

The occasion also marked the farewell of Roving Ambassador Mr William Toganivalu, who is pursuing a new career opportunity, and First Secretary Mr Ryneal Singh, who is preparing to take up his new diplomatic posting at the Fiji Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Congratulating Mr Mara on his appointment, Hon. Ditoka said his leadership comes at a critical time as Fiji navigates an increasingly complex global environment and seeks to advance its national development priorities through an effective and responsive foreign service and external trade machinery.

“Fiji’s international engagement is growing, while the environment in which we operate is becoming increasingly complex. Geopolitical competition is intensifying, the international trading system is under pressure, and climate change remains an existential concern for our region.

“Our diplomacy must consequently be purposeful. Our relationships must work for Fiji. Our Foreign Affairs and External Trade functions must increasingly work together so that our political relationships help us open markets, attract responsible investment, secure development opportunities and create economic opportunities for our people,” Hon. Ditoka said.

Hon. Ditoka expressed confidence that, under Mr Mara’s leadership, the Ministry will continue to strengthen Fiji’s diplomatic relations and advance trade cooperation in support of the country’s national interests.

He also acknowledged the leadership of outgoing Permanent Secretary Dr Raijeli Taga, thanking her for her contribution to the Ministry and the nation.

Hon. Ditoka further expressed his appreciation to Mr Toganivalu for his service and contribution to Fiji and the Pacific, while congratulating Mr Singh on his new diplomatic assignment and wishing both officers and their families every success in their future endeavours.

In his remarks, Mr Mara said he was honoured to return to the Ministry and looked forward to working closely with senior management, staff, Fiji’s diplomatic missions abroad, and international and regional partners.

“I am honoured to take up this important responsibility and look forward to working closely with the Ministry’s staff, our overseas missions, and our international and regional partners to advance Fiji’s interests and strengthen our global and regional engagements.

“I acknowledge the contributions of my predecessors and remain committed to building on their good work as we take forward Fiji’s foreign affairs and external trade priorities,” Mr Mara said.