Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sakiasi Ditoka stresses that no individual or organisation should be considered beyond the reach of Fiji's laws because of their economic contribution, investment activities or employment of Fijian citizens.
Ditoka says while questions in the US Trafficking In Persons Report for Fiji on INTERPOL Red Notices for some leaders of Grace Road Group not being honoured by Fiji and the status of investigations are matters that must be addressed by the competent law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities, the allegations must be properly investigated, due process respected and any determination of criminal responsibility made on the evidence and in accordance with the law.
He says the protection of employment and legitimate economic activity is an important consideration for any Government, but it cannot be used to excuse criminal conduct where such conduct is established.
Ditoka adds that as to the investigation report commissioned by the Coalition Government, he believes the responsible authorities are best placed to clarify its status and any findings that may properly be disclosed.
He says it would be inappropriate for him to speculate on operational decisions, the status of individual investigations or matters that may be subject to legal proceedings.
However he stresses that the Government of Fiji takes the issue of human trafficking, including sexual exploitation, forced labour and the exploitation of vulnerable women and children, very seriously.
Ditoka says these are serious criminal offences and violations of human dignity, and there should be no misunderstanding about the Government's commitment to combating them.
The Foreign Affairs Minister says the United States is one of Fiji's most important development partners, and the longstanding bilateral relationship is one that Fiji values greatly.
He says Fiji's cooperation extends across development assistance, security, economic engagement and other areas of mutual interest.
Ditoka says they therefore attach considerable importance to the assessments and concerns raised by the United States Government, including those contained in its 2026 Trafficking In Persons Report.
He adds combating human trafficking requires coordinated action across several agencies with distinct statutory responsibilities.
These include the Fiji Police Force, immigration authorities, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the relevant ministries responsible for labour, social welfare and child protection.
The Minister says the challenges are not confined to law enforcement alone.
He says trafficking can involve complex criminal networks, cross-border movements, vulnerable individuals who may be reluctant or afraid to come forward, and circumstances where exploitation is difficult to identify or prove.
Ditoka says effective investigations require specialised skills, cooperation between agencies and, frequently, assistance from international partners.
Ditoka says the protection of victims must remain central to our national response.
He says those who have suffered exploitation should be treated with dignity and provided with appropriate assistance, irrespective of their nationality.
Ditoka says on the specific question of funding and support arrangements, the relevant ministries should provide a clear account of the resources currently available, the challenges they face and the additional measures that may be necessary.
