Fiji and Australia are looking to strengthen cooperation between their land forces, with senior military leaders meeting in Suva to discuss future areas of collaboration.

Director General Army Operations and Joint Force Land Component Commander of the Australian Defence Force, Brigadier General Dean Thompson, visited the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) on Monday, 7 September 2026.

He was formally welcomed at Headquarters Land Forces Command at Queen Elizabeth Barracks in Nabua, where he was accorded a Quarter Guard.

Brig Gen Thompson’s visit formed part of the second RFMF–Australian Army Strategic Land Staff Talks, jointly led by RFMF Commander Land Forces, Brigadier General Onisivoro Covunisaqa, and Brig Gen Thompson.

The discussions provided an opportunity for both sides to review the existing relationship and identify ways to further develop cooperation between the RFMF and Australian Defence Force.

The talks follow the signing of the “Veitacini Treaty” between the Governments of Fiji and Australia, with the military discussions focused on strengthening cooperation and advancing areas of shared interest.

Key areas discussed included strategic engagement, future land force development, training and exercises, as well as military exchanges and rotations.

The two sides also considered their priorities for 2027, providing a framework for continued engagement and cooperation between the RFMF and Australian Army.

Both Heads of Delegation welcomed the opportunity to build on the longstanding land forces relationship and further develop areas of mutual benefit.