Fiji's defence relationship with Japan is entering a new phase, with cooperation set to expand beyond development assistance into practical security partnerships that strengthen the country's long-term defence capability.
This was highlighted by Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua at the first Japan Self-Defense Forces Day reception at the Japanese Embassy in Tamavua.
Tikoduadua says Fiji wants closer cooperation with Japan in professional military education, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster response and institutional development.
He says that while the international security environment is becoming increasingly complex, Fiji remains committed to ensuring the Pacific does not become a theatre for geopolitical rivalry.
He says this does not mean neutrality or disengagement.
Tikoduadua says it means Pacific states must remain free to determine their own partnerships, and that their security priorities must be heard and respected.
He adds that Fiji's relationship with Japan has matured significantly, with defence and security now forming an important part of bilateral cooperation.
He says discussions with Japan include expanding defence exchanges, developing a defence cooperation memorandum between the two ministries, and ensuring future projects are sustainable and aligned with Fiji's national security priorities.
The Minister says Fiji has cadets studying at Japan's National Defense Academy in Yokosuka, where they are gaining valuable leadership, strategic planning and defence administration experience before returning to serve in the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.
He also thanked the Government of Japan for donating three patrol boats under Japan's Official Security Assistance programme, saying the vessels would strengthen Fiji's maritime surveillance capability as the country protects its vast exclusive economic zone.
He says that although Fiji and Japan may not always share identical views on every international issue, their mature partnership allows both countries to continue working together where their interests align.
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Tajima says Fiji remains an important partner in Japan's vision for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific and describes the country as an anchor of regional peace, stability and security.
He says Fiji is among the first four countries selected for Japan's Official Security Assistance programme when it was launched in 2023, reflecting the importance Japan places on Fiji's role in regional security.
Tajima says Japan has completed the handover of equipment, including patrol boats, under the programme and has also provided scholarships for Fijian personnel to study at Japan's National Defense Academy, alongside joint training and capacity-building initiatives that continue to strengthen defence relations between the two countries.
