Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper regional cooperation during talks held on the sidelines of the inaugural Melanesian Ocean Summit in Port Moresby.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, with both leaders discussing opportunities to expand cooperation in trade, investment and regional security.

Prime Minister Rabuka thanked the Government and people of Papua New Guinea for hosting the summit, describing the gathering as an important step in reinforcing Pacific leadership on ocean protection and resource management.

The leaders also reflected on the longstanding historical and cultural ties shared by the two nations, including the contribution of Fijian missionaries in Papua New Guinea and the sacrifices made by Fijian soldiers during World War II in Bougainville.

Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s support following Fiji’s decision to reopen its diplomatic mission in Port Moresby in 2024, saying the move had created fresh opportunities for engagement across multiple sectors.

Discussions also covered progress on a proposed Fiji–Papua New Guinea Memorandum of Understanding aimed at broadening bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Rabuka updated Prime Minister Marape on Fiji’s efforts to repatriate the remains of Fiji’s only Victoria Cross recipient, Sefanaia Sukanaivalu, who is buried at the Bitapaka War Cemetery in Rabaul, East New Britain.

He thanked Papua New Guinea authorities for their support and expressed hope for further progress with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in the coming months.

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional energy security and the economic pressures facing Pacific nations due to ongoing global conflicts.

Prime Minister Rabuka further sought Papua New Guinea’s support for Fiji’s proposed Ocean of Peace Declaration and a wider regional call for global peace amid growing geopolitical tensions.

Both leaders concluded the meeting by reaffirming their shared commitment to Melanesian solidarity and closer regional cooperation to advance prosperity, resilience and security across the Pacific.