A FORMAL toast marked the 66th birthday of Japan’s Emperor Naruhito and highlighted the strong and respectful diplomatic ties between Fiji and Japan, centred on cooperation and shared values.
Speaking in Suva last night, Fiji’s Chief of Protocol, Kiti Temo, said the ceremony reflected the importance of ceremonial diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relationships.
“Fiji’s relationship with Japan is grounded in respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and UN principles, and Japan’s socio-economic assistance has notably impacted Fiji’s infrastructure, healthcare, climate change, and disaster resilience,’’ Temo said.
“The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has led key projects that improved living standards for Fijians, and this collaboration exemplifies how development aid supports long-term national growth and resilience.”
The Fiji-Japan relationship is firmly based on mutual respect and significant socio-economic collaboration, especially through Japan’s development assistance.
Temo said the recent partnership at the Osaka Expo provided a global platform to present Fiji’s cultural heritage.
“This opportunity was enabled by strong governmental support from Japan; such cultural exchanges enhance mutual understanding and elevate Fiji’s international profile,’’ Temo said.
“These efforts contribute to soft power and deepen people-to-people connections between the nations.”
Fiji reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining and deepening its harmonious, mutually beneficial relationship with Japan and has expressed collective well-wishes for peace, prosperity, and progress for both countries.
Lomavata Kizuna Partnership
Relations between the countries began with Japan’s recognition of Fiji’s independence in 1970 and the establishment of embassies in Suva (1979) and Tokyo (1981).
“These early diplomatic moves laid a solid groundwork for ongoing bilateral engagement, and high-level exchanges between leaders have steadily enhanced mutual trust and cooperation,” said Hiroshi Tajima, Japanese Ambassador to Fiji.
“The relationship serves as a model for Japan’s broader engagement with Pacific Island nations.
“The 2025 visit of Fiji’s Prime Minister Rabuka to Japan marked a new strategic chapter with the signing of the Japan Fiji Lomavata Kizuna Partnership.”
Tajima said this pact formalises a framework for strategic cooperation and long-term friendship, reflecting a mutual commitment to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors.
“The partnership aligns with Japan’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy and Fiji’s regional leadership.’’
Japan’s regional engagement through Pacific Islands leaders’ meetings (PALM) reinforces its support for Pacific unity and development, backing the Pacific Islands Forum 2050 strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent as a shared vision.
“The ‘Ocean of Peace’ concept, endorsed in September 2025, aligns with Japan’s free and open Indo-Pacific vision, and the regional cooperation framework underpins Japan’s readiness to work with Fiji and other island nations for peace and prosperity.”
Cultural and people-to-people ties enhance the bilateral relationship beyond diplomacy, he noted, “Japan appreciates Fiji’s diverse multicultural society and ‘Bula spirit’ of friendliness.”
“Such warmth fosters a welcoming environment that strengthens mutual understanding; these social bonds complement formal diplomatic efforts and enhance partnership resilience.”