PRE-COP 31 | Fiji and UAE to Advance Bilateral Relations Ahead of COP31

PRE-COP 31 | Fiji and UAE to Advance Bilateral Relations Ahead of COP31

Fiji and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) share mutual interest in deepening practical cooperation in the areas of climate resilience, energy security, trade and investment, renewable energy and digital transformation, which essentially complements the implementation of Fiji’s national development priorities.

This was highlighted during a bilateral meeting between the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Honourable Sakiasi Ditoka, and UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, H.E. Dr. Amna Al Dahak, on the margins of the Pacific Pre-COP31 in Nadi.

The insightful exchange was built on the outcome of the recent high-level visit to Fiji by UAE Minister of State, H.E. Dr. Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, reflecting the growing strength of Fiji–UAE relations and a shared commitment to delivering tangible development outcomes.

Against the backdrop of Pre-COP31, Hon. Ditoka acknowledged the UAE’s support for global climate diplomacy, stating that as Fiji and broader Pacific prepared for COP31, the focus is on   translating international climate commitments into practical solutions for vulnerable Pacific communities.

“Pre-COP31 provides an important platform to strengthen climate diplomacy and build partnerships that deliver real outcomes for our people. Fiji values the UAE’s support as we work towards COP31 and beyond, particularly in strengthening climate resilience, energy security and sustainable development,” Hon. Ditoka said.

The Minister also sought closer UAE cooperation in advancing Fiji’s national fuel security strategy, strengthening fuel storage and supply systems, and accelerating investment in renewable energy. In view of this, H.E. Dr Amma Al Dahak highlighted that UAE places high priority on energy security, as we globally pursue just energy transition to renewable.

Hon. Ditoka welcomed the UAE’s commitment to establish its first resident Embassy in Suva, describing it as a significant milestone in bilateral relations and a demonstration of the UAE’s commitment to Fiji and the wider Pacific.

He acknowledged the UAE’s USD 1.5 million contribution to Phase II of the LAKARO Renewable Energy Project, supporting clean energy solutions in Lakeba, Kadavu and Rotuma, as a strong example of practical development cooperation.

H.E. Dr Amma Al Dahak re-emphasized the significance of the Aviation Agreement envisaged to be formalized between Fiji and UAE; aimed at leveraging Trade, Food security, Capacity building and other bilateral programs. Fiji looks forward to the support that will be provided by UAE towards the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF).

She acknowledged Fiji for welcoming the world for this critical climate dialogue and expressed gratitude to the Pacific leaders for granting UAE strategic partnership status in PIFS. This enables UAE to deepen support to the region, recognizing our regional needs and challenges, including waste management and the use of waste energy.