The Governor-General of Australia David Hurley says the important value that Australia and Fiji share is respect.
Governor-General Hurley highlighted this when hosted at a state reception tonight.
He says Fiji and Australia’s respect for each other, for the environment and for joint commitment to our blue Pacific is valued.
Hurley says Australia acknowledges and respects Fiji's global leadership on climate change and advocacy and has set a target to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
He says Fiji is a valued partner of Australia.
Hurley also thanked the RFMF Bula Force for their great help when they were deployed to Australia.
Hurley says the economic ties between the two countries continue to grow and he is pleased that their pilot program for the commercial importation of Kava has commenced.
He also congratulated the Fijiana Drua on their win and says Australia is pleased to support Fiji in sports as well.
Hurley says Australia will also support more teams and athletes from Fiji and the Pacific leading up to the Olympic Games in 2032 in Brisbane.
He adds that they are working with Fiji to promote women's leadership and decision making, increase women's economic empowerment and seek to end violence against women.
Meanwhile Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says with 52 years of bilateral relationship the two nations have never been closer and the visit by the Governor-General of Australia and his wife, Linda Hurley affirms the shared commitment to continue deepening its ties.
He says the state visit is another step in the journey from strength to strength for the Fiji and Australia partnership.
Ratu Wiliame says the visit is also special because it signifies our shared struggle and overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic.
