The strong bilateral relations between Fiji and Japan will continue to foster greater opportunities in areas of socioeconomic development and exchanges.

This has been conveyed during the courtesy call made by Japanese Ambassador to Fiji Masahiro Omura, to Foreign Affairs Minister Inia Seruiratu.

Omura reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to expand the development opportunities for Fiji through increased Official Development Assistance.

The Japanese Government through the grassroots and community development sector has invested over $50 million in bilateral assistance in Fiji for the coordination of over 400 community projects since 1990.

Japan has also reached out to Fiji through Disaster Recovery Sector and has assisted in the re-building and rehabilitation of schools damaged by Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston.

In terms of the upcoming key areas of collaboration, Japan will be hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup and 2020 Olympics Game.

Fiji will be participating in both events.

Fiji will be seeking Japan’s assistance prior and during the two international events.

Discussions were also held around the potential export markets of agricultural products from Fiji to Japan, particularly with the advantage of having direct flights.