Japan grants $27.2 million to Fiji for a new disaster response vessel

The Government of Japan has provided Fiji with a total of $27.2 million for a new vessel to support disaster response efforts.

The government says the vessel will be procured under Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme.

They say the new Disaster Response and Multipurpose Vessel aims to support Fiji in two important areas, firstly to improve the government of Fiji’s disaster response and rehabilitation efforts to remote islands in times of disaster or in other crises, and secondly, to further enhance rural and outer island development programmes by supporting a whole-of-government approach to development.

While acknowledging the support from the government of Japan, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka say the vessel will enhance Fiji’s ability to respond swiftly to emergencies, deliver relief supplies to remote communities, and ensure vital services are accessible across our maritime zones.

The Ambassador of Japan to Fiji, Rokuichiro Michii says they will remain committed to co-creating a resilient and sustainable future with Fiji and the entire Pacific region.