Fiji has become the 76th country to join the American State’s Partnership Program.

This following an MOU signing with the Nevada National Guard in Suva today.

The Nevada Guard will now work closely to support Fiji’s military force to further the country’s mutual interests.

RFMF Commander Rear Admiral, Viliame Naupoto says some areas of focus will include peacekeeping operations, disaster preparedness, security and medical readiness.

“This partnership in my view is a wonderful tool for us to fulfil the vow that we made – that we will look after our people better all the time especially in times of their need.”

Adjutant General for the State of Nevada, Brigadier General William Burks says this provides them with an opportunity to work with Fiji on shared security and economic interest.

“The partnership with the Republic of Fiji and the Nevada National Guard is designed to enhance interpretability, create training opportunity and sustain capabilities and strengthen the Fiji – US relationship.”

Meanwhile, the partnership was announced by U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific Security Affairs – Randall Schriver last year.