Pacific Partnership is a testament to the enduring bonds that unite our nations - Ditoka

This is what nations can achieve when they unite towards shared challenges working towards peace, resilience and prosperity in our region.

Minister for Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka highlighted this earlier today at the Grand Pacific Hotel saying the Pacific Partnership is a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation that unite our nations.

Ditoka says this reflects our collective dedication to a common vision of a brighter more secure future for all our citizens.

He says the same level of interoperability that is necessary for mission operations is not only important for our work in disaster response, it is actually vital and so important.

The Minister says as we approach the cyclone season it is a timely reminder of the vital role of cooperation in addressing the diverse challenges that confront us in the pacific.

He says our region is renowned not only for its natural beauty but the vastness of its ocean spaces, places and the images it conjures in our imaginations, but also unfortunately our vulnerability to natural disasters, the ever present climate change and the pressing need to fortify our healthcare systems.

Ditoka says the Pacific Partnership stands as a beacon of hope symbolising our resilience embodying the values of compassion, solidarity and understanding that no single nation can tackle these challenges in isolation.

He says in the face of adversity our collective strength shines brightly.

Mission Commander US Navy Captain, Claudine Caluori says their mission is to conduct tailored humanitarian and civic preparedness activities in areas such as engineering, disaster response, public health and outreach events.

Capt. Caluori says they are very grateful to visit this country not once but twice which has allowed them to build a more enduring connection with the Fijian community in support of a free and open Blue Pacific.

She says the Pacific Partnership has nearly 1,500 personnel who will carry out this joint effort on behalf of Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States.