Fiji and the Cook Islands are in the process of finalising a new “Development Cooperation Agreement”, to advance economic cooperation, air transportation connectivity, trade, tourism, labour mobility, and also address ‘Climate Change’.

This was highlighted during a bilateral meeting held between the Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sitiveni Rabuka, and the Pacific Islands Forum Chair and Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown.

The two leaders discussed key areas of cooperation in the build up to the “Forum Troika” meeting, and the “Forum Economic Ministers Meeting” (FEMM), in Suva later this week.

Rabuka thanked Brown for his timely visit to Fiji, particularly to finalize the “Development Cooperation Agreement” (DCA).

He says the “Development Cooperation Agreement” will enhance opportunities for increased economic cooperation, particularly with the potential to establish air connectivity with the Cook Islands, through direct flights and collaboration in trade and tourism.

Rabuka acknowledged Brown’s role as the ‘Chair’ of the Forum, and also reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to regional solidarity, assuring full support to the Cook Islands – as it prepares to host the upcoming PIFs Meeting later this year.

He says Fiji will work closely with the Cook Islands and other Pacific Island countries, in the implementation of the “2050 Strategy of the Blue Pacific Continent”.