THE United States has realigned its foreign assistance to meet strategic goals, delivering targeted investments in security, technology, and disaster preparedness in Fiji.
The embassy established a Foreign Assistance Office to oversee aid aligned with the America First Foreign Assistance policy, with a focus on US strategic interests in Fiji and the Pacific.
A recent project includes training on 3D printed, mercury-free weather stations for outer islands to improve timely flood and drought warnings.
“The embassy delivered the first of several Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RIB boats) to the Fijian Navy for inshore maritime security and disaster response,” said Marie C. Damour, the US Ambassador to Fiji.
“These assets support maritime domain awareness, helping combat illegal fishing and transnational crime while aiding disaster preparedness.
“The $USD4.4 million funding that was signed last year in foreign military finance enhances Fijian forces with training, equipment upgrades, and leadership development through programs like the Nevada National Guard partnership.”
Damour emphasised ongoing efforts to provide relevant, timely support, while recognising the challenges of quantifying total US investment in the Pacific.
“Much assistance flows through UN agencies and multilateral banks, complicating direct accounting.
“The MCC compact is highlighted as potentially the most significant single US project in Fiji’s history,” she said.
US programs focus on strengthening democratic values, media freedom, leadership, and community empowerment in Fiji through sustained cultural and educational engagement.
“The embassy supported the Fiji Media Association’s town halls, a first for Fiji, to promote government transparency and information flow, and these events were live streamed nationwide, enhancing public dialogue and accountability.”
She said the recent swearing-in of the 100th Peace Corps Volunteer group aims to boost community economic empowerment with locally led business and fiscal management projects.
Since 1968, over 2,700 Americans have contributed to Fiji in health, education, and economic security, cementing a long-term relationship.
“The US will celebrate its 250th year of independence in 2026 with cultural events in Fiji to deepen public engagement and mutual understanding.”
Strategic Alignment with PIFS
The US supports Pacific regional unity and aligns its efforts with the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) 2050 Blue Pacific strategy to strengthen collective development and security.
Damour expressed strong US backing for the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat as the key regional decision-making body.
“The US values the power of regional cooperation, comparing it to its own founding principle of strength through unity.”
Although unable to attend the latest leaders’ meeting, US officials engaged with Pacific leaders at follow-up events with plans to continue active engagement through these forums in 2026.
The US aligns its foreign assistance and strategic priorities with the PIF 2050 strategy, with a focus on economic development and maritime security.
“Priorities like maritime domain awareness directly support shared goals to protect Pacific resources.
“The US has vested interests due to its own Pacific territories and seeks to synchronise efforts for mutual benefit.
Labour Mobility and Employment Opportunities
While recognising the importance of remittances from the US, there is currently no specific US program equivalent to Australia’s Pacific labour partnerships to expand Fijian employment in the US.
She added that the US does not have a dedicated labour mobility scheme with Fiji, but it does offer legal work opportunities through employer sponsorship.
“Seasonal agricultural worker programs exist but are not country-specific and operate through industry associations.
Damour noted no current plans to create a program like Australia’s Pacific Labour Scheme, but she acknowledged that there are general opportunities for employment under US immigration rules.