Sakiasi Ditoka, Fiji’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, received a courtesy visit this week from the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Philippines to Fiji, Noel M. Novicio.
During the meeting at the Ministry’s headquarters in Suva, Ditoka highlighted the strong and longstanding diplomatic relationship between Fiji and the Philippines.
He says the establishment of the Philippines’ diplomatic presence in Fiji demonstrates both countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, enhancing cooperation across the Pacific, and working together on regional and global priorities.
Ditoka expressed confidence that the strengthened diplomatic engagement would open new avenues for practical cooperation and closer relations between the two nations.
He also acknowledged the valuable contribution of the Filipino community in Fiji, especially in the healthcare sector, where Filipino professionals have played an important role in supporting Fiji’s development since the 1970s.
Ditoka says discussions during the meeting covered areas of mutual interest, including labour mobility, trade and investment, agriculture and aquaculture development, disaster risk management, and strategic regional cooperation.
