Changing geopolitical dynamics and halt of major USAID programs in the Pacific has opened up spaces for other donors to step in.
One of Fiji’s biggest development partners, Japan, maintains it is here to stay.
Japanese Ambassador Rokuichiro Michii said Japan remained committed to Fiji and to the Pacific and that would remain the same.
“We will continue to provide assistance wherever possible and wherever the need is,” he said.
“Our thought is, we should help each other when your friend is in need of help, and that is our basic principle. So regardless of what sort of situation might emerge, please be rest assured that we will be together with Fiji.
“I’ve been here for one year, a little bit over one year, but we have done various projects.”
He said this included disaster relief, new safety equipment to airports, a new fishing research vessel and the construction of the Tamavua-i-Wai bridge.
“Our principle is, we don’t want to force our idea. It has to be based on your need and your concept. So we always discuss what would be the best for you and do whatever we can. That’s a policy. So this should be collaboration between equal partners.”
