Fiji is set to welcome United Arab Emirates Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Dr. Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, on an official visit this week.

The visit is expected to strengthen relations between Fiji and the UAE, with discussions focusing on trade and investment, climate change, renewable energy, education and development cooperation.

Dr. Al Kaabi is also expected to meet senior Government officials to discuss the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), as well as Memoranda of Understanding covering areas of mutual interest.

Opportunities to improve connectivity and expand economic ties between the two countries are also expected to feature in the talks.

The planned establishment of a UAE Embassy in Suva is another key area of discussion, signalling the UAE’s growing interest in Fiji and the wider Pacific region.

Fiji and the UAE established diplomatic relations in 2010, with cooperation expanding across several sectors over the years.

Fiji’s Government says it looks forward to hosting Dr. Al Kaabi and further strengthening the partnership between the two countries.