SODELPA leader, Viliame Gavoka says a SODELPA Government would dialogue and enhance partnerships with Australia in areas of mutual interest such as defense, trade, security, education, health and other capacity building initiatives such as climate change adaptation and the Pacific Islands Workers Scheme.
He has thanked Australian Foreign Minister, Senator Penny Wong, and the new Labor Government’s initiative to strengthen relations with Fiji and the Pacific Islands Region.
He says they applaud Australia’s commitment to take real action on climate change at home and within our region, as well as increased development assistance and security cooperation.
Gavoka also says he was also pleased with Wong’s announcement to allow 3,000 Pacific Island families to join their loved ones in Australia working under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme.
He says it is a truly generous and humane gesture upholding the importance of “Vuvale” promoting families and their well-being.
The Opposition leader further says Australia has, in the past, stood in solidarity with Fiji during our most challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and rehabilitation efforts following Cyclone Winston and other natural disasters and Fiji has also sent our security personnel to assist in rescue efforts during the deadly bush-fires.
Gavoka says there is a historic and special bond of “Vuvale” between Australia and the South Pacific Island region which should be maintained.
