Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III made history by becoming the first U.S. Defense Secretary to visit Fiji. This visit is part of his 12th trip to the Indo-Pacific region, where he aims to strengthen regional partnerships. Upon his arrival in Fiji, Austin was welcomed by members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and participated in a traditional Fijian welcome ceremony at Black Rock Camp. He also enjoyed a rugby sevens match before expressing his appreciation for the professionalism of the Fijian service members and their rich traditions.
During his visit, Austin is scheduled to meet with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa. The two countries are expected to sign an acquisition and cross servicing agreement to facilitate U.S. logistical support to Fiji in case of emergencies. Additionally, negotiations will begin on a Status of Forces Agreement to enhance collaboration between the U.S. and Fiji, and $4.9 million in foreign military financing will be provided for small-arms recapitalization for Fijian forces. These announcements align with Fiji’s goals of improving its military’s capabilities and professionalism to respond to regional needs.
Austin’s visit to Fiji is part of a series of engagements with regional counterparts that demonstrate the United States’ commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. In addition to Fiji, Austin has met with key partners in Australia, the Philippines, and Laos to strengthen relationships and advance cooperation. He emphasized the importance of working alongside allies and partners to establish a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Austin’s trip aims to deliver tangible results that will contribute to building an enduring network of allies and partners, showcasing the U.S.’s ongoing commitment to the region and the progress made in recent years.
As Austin continues to engage with regional partners in the Indo-Pacific, he remains focused on deepening relationships and enhancing cooperation to address shared challenges. His visit to Fiji underscores the U.S.’s dedication to working with like-minded partners to promote peace and stability in the region. By signing agreements and providing support to strengthen Fiji’s military capabilities, the U.S. is reaffirming its commitment to the Indo-Pacific and reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing regional security issues. Austin’s visit to Fiji serves as a testament to the strong bonds between the U.S. and its partners in the region and highlights the continued efforts to build a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
