PRE-COP31 | Australian Prime Minister Hon. Anthony Albanese Arrives for The Pacific PRE-COP31
06/10/2026Published On: 06/10/2026
Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Honourable Sakiasi Ditoka, met with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Mr Iori Kato, on the margins of the Pacific Pre-COP31 in Nadi today.
Hon. Ditoka acknowledged IOM’s continued technical support to Fiji, including early warning system noting that the partnership is becoming increasingly important as Pacific communities confront the impacts of climate change, including sea-level rise, displacement, and threats to livelihoods.
During the meeting, Hon. Ditoka highlighted the need for IOM to consider providing support for the reintegration of Fijian diaspora returning from abroad. The discussions also explored opportunities for cooperation in combating human trafficking and online scams. Fiji expressed interest in strengthening public awareness initiatives, including through radio broadcasting programmes, while noting that funding constraints remain a key challenge.
“Our partnership with IOM is particularly important as we strengthen national systems and regional cooperation to ensure that communities affected by climate change are supported, protected, and able to move with dignity where mobility becomes necessary,” Hon. Ditoka said.
Mr Kato conveyed his appreciation for Fiji’s leadership as the Champion Country for the Global Compact for Migration. He also commended Fiji’s leadership in developing both its National Migration Policy and National Diaspora Policy. In addition, he highlighted the upcoming 75th anniversary meeting of the IOM Council, which will be held in Geneva from 9 to 11 December.
The meeting reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Fiji and IOM and underscored the important role of IOM’s Regional Office in Fiji in supporting national and regional efforts on migration, climate mobility, disaster preparedness, and community resilience as we build a strong outcome in the Pre-COP towards COP31 in Antalya, Turkiye.
