Fiji cabinet approves new treaty with Australia

Fiji's cabinet has approved the country's new treaty with Australia, the Vuvale Union.

In a statement on Friday, the Fijian government described it as a "treaty-level framework" that will strengthen and formalise the two countries' longstanding partnership.

This follows talks this week in Suva between Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong who said security would be a central pillar of the treaty.

Co-operation is to deepen in key areas including economic integration, climate security, digital connectivity, employment, education, health and infrastructure.

The government said the Vuvale Union will support shared prosperity, resilience, and Pacific regionalism.

"Grounded in mutual respect, sovereignty, democratic values, and the Pacific Way, the framework will also support Fiji's economic transformation agenda through agricultural diversification, digital transition, skills mobility, climate resilience, and stronger health and border systems."

Wong said on Wednesday that the treat would have three pillars: economy, security and people.

"This reflects the our shared understanding that in a world that is challenging and in a world that is more contested, we are stronger together.

She added the deal would benefit the people of Australia and Fiji the region for generations to come.

Conroy said the union will strengthen Fiji's capabilities across interdiction, policing, legislation, prosecution, and health to combat transnational crime.

"The Vuvale Union is the natural progression of our close partnership. It will provide greater peace and stability and prosperity for our two peoples, and it will be, in the decades to come, bedrock for further Pacific cooperation."