Australia-Fiji business and community links were in focus on the Gold Coast during two days of engagements marking Fiji Airways’ new direct Gold Coast-Nadi service.
The event began with a Business Networking Reception hosted by Fiji High Commissioner His Excellency Ajay Bhai Amrit in support of the new air service, which is expected to strengthen tourism, trade and people-to-people connections between Fiji and Queensland.
The reception brought together representatives from government, business and the Fiji community, providing an opportunity to celebrate the growing commercial relationship between the two countries. Fiji’s premium products were also showcased, including kava from The Calmer Co. and whisky from Ben Buckler Whisky.
Australia Fiji Business Council President Zane Yoshida attended the reception, where discussions highlighted the role of aviation connectivity in supporting tourism flows, business travel and broader economic engagement.
The following day, the Australia Fiji Business Council hosted a private lunch for Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, High Commissioner Amrit and members of the Fiji delegation.
The lunch brought together senior leaders from government and business for discussions on trade and investment, tourism, aviation links, the Australia-Fiji Commercial Kava Import Framework and opportunities to further strengthen the Vuvale Partnership.
The visit came at a time of renewed momentum in the bilateral relationship, with aviation, tourism and business engagement continuing to play a central role in deepening ties between Fiji and Australia.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka plays a tune on the harmonica.
A memorable moment came at the conclusion of the lunch when Prime Minister Rabuka played his harmonica for guests, adding a personal touch to proceedings and underlining the warmth that often characterises the Australia-Fiji relationship.
AFBC said the engagements reflected the importance of both formal business dialogue and personal connections in building enduring partnerships between the two countries.
The Council said it would continue to support opportunities that bring together government, business and community leaders to advance practical cooperation across trade, investment and tourism.
