Fiji: The Fijian Prime Minister Mr. Sitiveni Rabuka has stated that a police exchange agreement with China is under review as his government considers whether to cancel it outright.

In 2011, Fiji’s government signed a memorandum of understanding enabling Fijian police officers to be trained in China. It also saw Chinese officers deployed to Fiji. But since being voted into power in a general election six months ago, Mr. Rabuka’s coalition government has shown more scepticism about close ties with Beijing.

During a state visit to New Zealand, the Fijian premier indicated the agreement was on ice as deliberations continued.

“When we came into power, the thing I said was, if our values and our systems differ, what cooperation can we get from them [China]?” the Fijian PM told reporters in Wellington.

Met Prime Minister @chrishipkins in Wellington this morning, reaffirming the strength and spirit of New Zealand and Fiji’s relationship, as outlined in the Duavata Relationship Statement of Partnership. ????? pic.twitter.com/0O02jmssMY

— Sitiveni Rabuka (@slrabuka) June 7, 2023

“We need to look at that again before we decide on whether we go backward or continue the way we have had in the past—cooperating with those that have similar democratic values and systems of legislation, law enforcement, and so on,” Mr. Rabuka remarked.

The Fijian leader noted that New Zealand and Fiji were poised to sign a defence agreement next week aimed at increasing cooperation between their military forces.

“The agreement will allow defence officials to undertake engagement in different areas, including capacity building and upskilling, exposure to new technologies, and technical support, among others,” Mr. Rabuka added.

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