FIJI’S visiting delegation in Palau has met with members of the Fijian community in Koror to hear about their experiences, concerns and contributions to ties between the two countries.
The meeting was held on the margins of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting and brought together about 50 Fijian community members and 15 children.
During the talanoa session, community members shared their views directly with Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Sakiasi Ditoka, and other senior government officials.
Ditoka said Fiji’s relationship with Palau was strengthened not only through official engagement, but also through the presence and work of Fijians living in the country.
He acknowledged Fijians working in sectors including health and statistics, saying their skills and services contributed to Palau’s development while also reflecting Fiji’s role in the region.
The Minister also encouraged the community to remain connected to Fiji while building positive relationships in Palau.
He said younger Fijians overseas should continue to understand their culture, language and identity.
Ditoka said Fijians could be active members of Palauan society while maintaining strong links to their roots.
The meeting also highlighted the diaspora’s wider role in supporting families and communities in Fiji.
Ditoka said remittances from Fijians overseas continued to provide important support to households at home.
He said the Government remained committed to improving engagement with Fijians living overseas and making services more accessible.
The session allowed the delegation to hear directly from Fijians in Palau about the issues they face away from home.
Ditoka was accompanied by Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Dr Raijeli Taga, and Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Dr Sivendra Michael.
The engagement took place as Fiji’s delegation attended the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Koror.
