Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III signed a new agreement with Fiji aimed at enhancing logistics cooperation between the two countries. The Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement will facilitate the transfer of fuel and medical supplies, as well as the use of maintenance facilities during emergencies. This agreement underscores the United States’ commitment to building lasting partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region and follows nearly a decade of negotiations between the two countries.
During a press conference, Austin highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating that it will lead to closer ties and enhanced logistics cooperation between the two countries’ forces. The signing ceremony took place at Black Rock Camp, where Austin signed the agreement alongside Fijian officials. Prior to the ceremony, Austin met with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa to discuss bilateral cooperation between the U.S. and Fiji.
In addition to finalizing the ACSA agreement, the U.S. and Fiji announced the start of formal negotiations on a Status of Forces Agreement to further strengthen their collaboration. Austin also announced a $4.9 million foreign military financing package for small-arms recapitalization for Fijian forces, pending Congressional approval. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the U.S.-Fijian relationship as a key focus in the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting their shared values and vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Austin’s visit to Fiji was part of his 12th trip to the Indo-Pacific region since taking office, demonstrating the United States’ unwavering commitment to the region. During his trip, he also met with key U.S. partners in Australia, the Philippines, and Laos. In Australia, Austin participated in the 14th Trilateral Defense Minister’s Meeting with Australian and Japanese defense ministers, where they discussed increasing cooperation in force posture activities and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. In the Philippines, he signed a General Security of Military Information Agreement to enhance information sharing and defense technology between the two countries. Austin also visited Laos to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus, reaffirming the U.S.’ commitment to regional security.
Throughout his engagements in the Indo-Pacific, Austin emphasized the importance of working with like-minded countries to promote an open and secure region. He announced the approval of a second iteration of a U.S.-led maritime exercise with ASEAN countries and highlighted the progress made in strengthening ties throughout the region over the past four years. Austin’s visits to key regional partners and participation in multilateral meetings underscore the United States’ commitment to the Indo-Pacific region and its efforts to build strong partnerships for regional security and stability.
