Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica says Fiji has an opportunity to benefit from Israel’s expertise in cybersecurity and digital technology, following concerns about the potential risks of closer cooperation with the country.

Responding to questions after the opening of the University of the South Pacific Digital Skills Hub, Mr Kamikamica acknowledged Israel’s reputation in cybersecurity but said Fiji should focus on the opportunities the relationship could provide.

“It’s no secret, you know, like Israel is one of the leading countries when it comes to cybersecurity and all that,” he said.

“Because we are friends, there’s an opportunity for the country to leverage and benefit from it, rather than the other way around.”

The question was raised over whether cooperation with Israel could expose sensitive information relating to Fiji’s mineral resources and other national assets to potential threats.

Mr Kamikamica did not directly outline specific safeguards for protecting such information but pointed to the potential for collaboration and employment opportunities through Israeli technology companies.

He revealed that discussions had previously taken place, when he was Minister for Communications, with an Israeli cybersecurity company interested in establishing a base in Fiji.

“That conversation may well come back and will mean employment for young men and women,” he said.

His comments come as Fiji strengthens its diplomatic relationship with Israel and as Israel has been accepted as a Pacific Islands Forum partner, according to an announcement by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on October 20.

The new partnership is expected to provide a framework for cooperation in areas including water management, agriculture, climate change adaptation, innovation and sustainable development.

However, questions about cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive national information remain important as Fiji pursues greater digital transformation and international technology partnerships.

Mr Kamikamica said the potential return of the Israeli company could provide opportunities for Fiji’s workforce, particularly young people seeking employment in the technology sector.

He referred questions concerning diplomatic and foreign affairs matters to the relevant ministry.