The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (CRFMF), Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, was formally invited by the French Armed Forces to attend the Paris Air Show from 16 to 20 June 2025.

This prestigious international event brought together representatives from a wide range of industries to exhibit the latest advancements in aerospace technology. It served as a valuable platform for exploring equipment and capabilities that may significantly enhance Fiji’s maritime security, search and rescue (SAR) operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and peacekeeping missions at national, regional and global levels.

During the visit, the CRFMF also held bilateral engagements with the French Chief of Defence, Army General Thierry Burkhard, and the Deputy Director General for International Relations and Strategy (DGRIS), General Eric Peltier. Major General Kalouniwai conveyed Fiji’s deep appreciation for the continued support and cooperation provided by its French partners—particularly acknowledging the recent donation of surveillance drones alongside the successful execution of Exercise Croix du Sud 2025 in Wallis and Fatuna.

Security cooperation contributes significantly to stability and resilience across the Pacific region. The ongoing partnership between the RFMF and its like-minded partners reflects a shared commitment to regional peace and security.

The Paris Air Show, recognized as the world’s premier aerospace exhibition, aims to foster international collaboration, promote innovation in sustainable aviation and defence, and inspire the next generation through immersive and interactive exhibits.