USAID/Pacific Islands Mission opens in Suva

The US Embassy has opened a USAID/Pacific Islands Mission in Suva which will help to advance the economic and social development goals of the Pacific Island counties.

While speaking at the opening, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua stated that the re-establishment of the USAID office in Suva will present tangible and intangible benefits for Fiji and the region in terms of development and creating more new opportunities.

Qereqeretabua says Fiji and the USA share a multi-ethnic heritage and democratic values, a record of close cooperation on international peacekeeping operations, regional security and environmental issues including climate change and economic development.

She says the establishment will also strengthen the people-to-people relationship and friendship between the two nations and relevant sectors.

Meanwhile, USAID Administrator Samantha Power says the Mission will implement the five-year USAID Strategic Framework for the Pacific Islands with priorities for the Blue Pacific Continent to advance a more democratic, prosperous and resilient Pacific islands region.

She says this will also deepen the relationship to help Pacific islanders build resilience to climate crises, economic shocks and health challenges including an increase in digital connectivity and cybersecurity, supporting Fiji to consolidate democratic gains.

Power says this will be through providing $600,000 in technical assistance and training the government to conduct electoral reform to boost fairness, inclusiveness, credibility, the integrity of the local elections and women's participation in political and electoral processes.

Senior Foreign Service officer and USAID/ Timor-Leste, Zema Semunegus was also sworn in as the USAID/ Pacific islands Mission Director today.