Bilateral Meeting With The South African Finance Minister

Finance Minister, Jone Kubuabola and Commerce Minister Tomasi Vuetilovoni met with the South African Finance Minister, Mr. Mpahlwa on Wednesday (17 July) at Sheraton, just before the traditional Fijian Welcome Ceremony started.

The Ministers discussed a broad range of topics including the possibility of enhancing diplomatic relations, technical assistance, strengthening sporting links, trade and investment issues.

Minister Kubuabola stated that Fiji recognized the need to enhance relations with Africa and is interested in establishing a diplomatic presence in South Africa, possibly starting with the appointment of an Honorary Consul. He said although Fiji has diplomatic links with South Africa, there is no Fiji resident mission in any African countries. Minister Mpahlwa responded that his government has agreed in principle the need to strengthen diplomatic relations with Fiji and it is only a matter of time before they establish a diplomatic presence in Suva. Currently, South Africa is accredited to Fiji through its High Commission in Canberra.

On technical assistance co-operation, Fiji sought South African assistance in training government officials in the area of trade negotiations in view of their expertise in negotiating with the European Union. South Africa has recently concluded a bilateral free trade agreement with the EU and their experience could be very beneficial for Fiji in preparation to the negotiations for a new trading arrangement with the EU under the Cotonou Agreement.

The Ministers explored the possibilities of improving sporting links especially in rugby, a sport dear to the hearts of the people of both countries. It was agreed that apart from the Rugby Union contacts, both governments should encourage more exchanges through the official channel.

The Ministers also discussed the possibilities of improving bilateral trade and investment relations to the advantageous mutual benefit of both countries. Areas of discussion included the information technology, the film making industry, telecommunication, and the fisheries sector.