Fiji and Cook Islands Reaffirm Strong Bilateral and Regional Partnership

The Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of the Cook Islands, Ms. Elizabeth Wright – Koteka was warmly welcomed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade by the Assistant Minister, Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Raijeli Taga, this week.

In her remarks, Hon. Qereqeretabua underscored the deep-rooted ties between the two countries, anchored by shared Pacific values, strong people-to-people connections, and ongoing cooperation at both bilateral and regional levels.

Minister Hon. Qereqeretabua expressed her gratitude to the Government of Cook Islands for providing a second home to Fijian citizens and for the care extended to their welfare. She acknowledged the valuable contributions of Fijians living in the Cook Islands to the local community and back to Fiji and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to ensuring its citizens abroad remain connected and supported.

Discussions covered growing opportunities for collaboration in areas of trade and investment, with both sides recognizing efforts to explore new avenues for cooperation and the importance of strengthening partnerships in light of global challenges affecting the region.

Secretary Koteka expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended to her and High Commission Chargé d’Affaires Ms. Antonina Browne and reaffirmed the Cook Islands commitment to deepening its relationship with Fiji and advancing shared priorities across the wider Pacific region.

She also commended Fiji’s regional leadership including in the hosting of the upcoming Pre-COP meeting, noting its significance in ensuring Pacific voices are effectively reflected and advanced on the global stage.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to further deepen cooperation and close engagement moving forward.