“We are in an era where sustainable development is the buzz word for our national economy and the international communities.”

This was the statement from the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Inia Seruiratu while speaking at the official dinner last night in honour of the Non-Resident Heads of Missions from Canberra and Wellington in the country for a familiarisation visit which provided invaluable insight on how Fiji views the way forward.

Seruiratu told the visiting delegates that as comprehensive and as challenging as the sustainable development goals 2030 are for all of our nations, there is an equal assurance to feel in the realization that we have close allies, friends and indeed partners who are able and willing to assist us to achieve those goals.

The first-ever familiarisation program with the theme “Nurturing Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development,” began on Monday 19th and will conclude on Thursday 22nd August 2019.

Meanwhile, the Minister says while Fiji prepares for UN Secretary-General’s Climate Summit next month in New York, it is imperative that every country is focused on providing ambitious national targets and initiatives that will enable the international community to avert catastrophic climate disaster.