Fiji and the European Union recently held their first Partnership Dialogue under Article 3 of the new Partnership Agreement known as the Samoa Agreement.

The European Union (EU) discussed its efforts towards economic security amidst the Ukraine-Russia conflict and its focus on green and resilient transitions.

Both parties stressed the importance of implementing the COP28 Dubai Consensus and defining new climate finance goals post-2025.

Following the signing of the Samoa Agreement in November 2023, the EU and Fiji prioritised its implementation and discussed development cooperation for 2021-2027.

The EU’s support aligns with Fiji’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

Updates were provided on Fiji’s key projects, including the National Development Plan and efforts in good governance and human rights.

The Dialogue highlighted shared values such as the rule of law, democracy and human rights. Fiji presented progress in governance, combating corruption, promoting gender equality and addressing transnational crimes.

Discussions on trade focused on leveraging the interim Economic Partnership Agreement to boost Fiji’s trade with the EU.

Both parties emphasised common priorities like taxation, financial governance and ocean governance, including ratification of the BBNJ agreement and combating IUU fishing.

Cooperation in non-traditional security areas like cyber and maritime security was also discussed.

The meeting was co-chaired by officials from Fiji’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the EU’s European External Action Service, with participation from EU Member States and the European Development Bank.

The Samoa Agreement serves as a collaborative framework covering various areas including the economy, environment, peace, democracy and poverty alleviation, with Article 3 facilitating regular partnership dialogues.