Josefa Sigavolavola 
[Photo: MINISTRY OF PUBLIC WORKS/ FACEBOOK]
Fiji has welcomed Tonga’s consideration of establishing a weather radar in Vavaʻu, describing the proposal as a potential boost to regional weather monitoring and early warning capabilities across the Pacific.
The proposal was raised during a bilateral meeting between Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau and Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fatafehi Fakafānua ahead of the 4th Pacific Ministerial Meeting in Meteorology.
Ro Filipe says a weather radar in Vavaʻu could complement Fiji’s existing meteorological radar network and strengthen regional efforts to monitor tropical cyclones and other severe weather events.
He noted that enhanced radar coverage and closer cooperation between Pacific meteorological services would improve the sharing of critical weather information and support more effective early warning systems for vulnerable communities.
The discussion was part of broader talks to strengthen collaboration between the Fiji Meteorological Service and the Tonga Meteorological Service.
The meeting also discussed opportunities for cooperation in tropical cyclone forecasting, calibration of meteorological instruments, training and capacity development for meteorological technicians, climate services and the exchange of critical meteorological data.
Minister Ro Filipe further highlighted the importance of regional partnerships in improving disaster preparedness and building resilience to the growing impacts of climate change.
The bilateral talks reaffirmed the close relationship between Fiji and Tonga while identifying practical areas for future collaboration in meteorology and climate services.
