The Vuvale Union represents a significant milestone in Fiji–Australia relations, reaffirming both countries’ dedication to a cooperative, Pacific-led approach to regional peace and security.

The event held from 22 to 24 March in Bengaluru has brought together political, business and academic figures of Indian origin to discuss issues ranging from artificial intelligence and climate change to trade and philanthropy.

Does anyone really think a Pacific country would be better off by not taking part in Australia’s PALM or PEV or New Zealand’s RSE and PAC/SQ?

Prof. Prasad described Koya’s stance as “not only insulting but a clear attempt to degrade the formal language of Indo-Fijians.”

Plans are also in progress to digitise more than 60,000 Girmit records and establish a dedicated museum to preserve this history for future generations.

The meeting underscored the growing sporting links between Fiji and Australia under the countries’ Vuvale Partnership, which promotes cooperation across sectors, including sport.

The meeting in Suva on 10 March focused on strengthening collaboration in areas including climate initiatives, waste management, technology and capacity building.

“Fiji’s strength lies in its diversity,” he said, pointing to the country’s multiethnic population, including iTaukei, Rotumans, Indo-Fijians, Banabans, Chinese, Pacific Islanders, and other residents.

Businesses closed, and tourism and agriculture came to a standstill, putting jobs, incomes and economic growth at risk across the country.

Their cooperation is underpinned by the Solesolevaki memorandum of understanding signed in 2025 to improve cross-border coordination and tackle transnational crime.