Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says we stand our best chance at a truly transformative and sustainable recovery by working together in solidarity.
He made these comments while speaking at the virtual inauguration of the 5th Indian Ocean Conference in Abu Dhabi.
Bainimarama says the challenges posed by COVID-19 and climate change must be confronted together in solidarity with redoubled efforts for sustainability.
He says collaboration remains imperative for sustainable recovery across the region and research organisations like the India Foundation can make a big difference in forging that co-operation.
The Prime Minister says Fiji is prepared to do its part in finding and implementing solutions that will bring security and prosperity to our countries and people.
He also says if developing countries are going to adapt their infrastructure and economies to the ravages of climate change, we need financing mechanisms that will disburse funds quickly and allow flexibility.
Bainimarama says the old development-finance models will not work because time is precious and we need more grants and concessional loans, including debt incurred by governments for COVID relief.
The Prime Minister has also revealed that Fiji has signed an agreement with the Australian Government under which Australia is making more than AUD$100 million available to developing countries in the region for bilateral carbon offsets.
Bainimarama adds such initiative is a demonstration of what can be done with political will and that more must be done through greater collaboration.
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