The non – resident Ambassador for the Republic of Ireland to Fiji His Excellency Noel White presented his letters of credentials to His Excellency the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau at Government House today.
In presenting his credentials, Ambassador White said Ireland respected it relationship with Fiji and brought the warm wishes of the Irish President Michael D. Higgins.
In receiving Ambassador White, Ratu Epeli acknowledged the areas of cooperation between Fiji and Ireland in international forums like the UN, particularly on the important issues of climate change, disarmament, sustainable development and UN Peacekeeping. He noted that Fijian and Irish troops have served well together under the UN banner in places like Lebanon and Iraq.
Fiji and Ireland formally established full diplomatic relations on 19th March 2002, with the signing of a joint communiqué in Canberra, Australia by the resident heads of mission of both countries.
Prior to the formalisation of their diplomatic relations, Fiji and Ireland had worked closely in UN peacekeeping operations in the UNFIL and other parts of the world. Trade between Fiji and Ireland have consistently been in both countries’ favour with Fiji exporting timber products, processed fish, garments, sugar, kava/yaqona and some fruits and vegetables.
HE Ambassador White will be based in Canberra, Australia.
MINFO