Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Biman Prasad represented Fiji at the first-ever Japan-Pacific Islands Finance Ministers’ Meeting, held during the Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting. 

This meeting included finance ministers from Japan and twelve Pacific Island Countries, setting the stage for the upcoming Tenth Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting in July. 

Prasad acknowledged Japan’s active role in the Indo-Pacific Strategy and expressed gratitude for Japan’s substantial support to Fiji, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also thanked Japan for its partnership with the Asian Development Bank in supporting the Pacific, highlighting Fiji’s policy reforms and the challenges of high debt. 

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the need for innovative debt restructuring approaches and increased financing for climate change adaptation.

The ministers agreed to maintain close communication and reconvene next year for further discussions.