Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, unveiled an innovative visa arrangement for Fijian citizens during a press conference held in the wake of the refreshed Vuvale Partnership’s signing with Fiji’s Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka.

In his announcement, Albanese revealed that Fiji is now designated as a pilot country for a new, simplified Australian visa application service.

This initiative aims to facilitate seamless travel between the two nations, foster stronger ties, and nurture their enduring friendship.

Additionally, Albanese disclosed that Australia is extending budgetary support to Fiji, a move intended to bolster the country’s economic recovery efforts.

The Prime Ministers acknowledged the mutual benefits associated with labour mobility, and agreed to work together to overcome economic and social complexities arising from the program.

They also agreed to work together to ensure the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme reflects our shared priorities and to strengthen skills development partnerships to meet Fiji and Australia’s domestic workforce needs.

The Prime Ministers agreed on the importance of regional unity, guided by the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent steered by the Pacific Islands Forum leaders.

They look forward to working closely together at this year’s Forum Leaders meeting in November, in the Cook Islands.

The Prime Ministers discussed the mutual challenges we face at a time of rising tension globally, and agreed on the importance of working in partnership in our region.

Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged the valuable contribution Fiji has made to peace and security in the region, and Fiji’s long and distinguished contribution to peacekeeping operations around the world.

He also confirmed that Australia will meet Fiji’s request for the purchase of 14 additional Protected Mobility Vehicles (Bushmasters) to support Fiji’s international peacekeeping operations.

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