𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐔.𝐒. 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐢𝐣𝐢 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐀𝐜𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬-𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

The signing of the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) between Fiji and the United States marks a historic milestone in their defense and security partnership. Formalized at the Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Camp by Fiji’s Acting Minister of Home Affairs and Immigration, Hon. Filimoni Vosarogo, and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, the agreement strengthens military interoperability and logistical support. A decade in the making, the ACSA facilitates reciprocal exchanges of critical supplies and services, enhancing joint readiness and operational capabilities to address emergencies, humanitarian missions, and regional security challenges.

The partnership builds on existing initiatives, including U.S. Foreign Military Financing, leadership training under the International Military Education and Training program, and maritime security collaborations to combat illegal fishing and transnational crimes. Additionally, the 2018 Shiprider Agreement and the Nevada National Guard’s State Partnership Program have reinforced Fiji’s law enforcement and military capacity. Looking forward, Fiji and the U.S. aim to finalize a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) to expand joint exercises such as Cartwheel and deepen military engagements. Fiji also seeks U.S. support in transitioning peacekeeping forces post-2026 and advancing maritime domain awareness through technology and unmanned systems.

The ACSA highlights a shared commitment to maintaining peace, security, and governance in the Indo-Pacific. It reflects the strategic alignment between the U.S. and Fiji, ensuring enhanced collaboration on pressing regional challenges such as climate change, maritime security, and countering narcotics trafficking. As a regional leader, Fiji continues to play a critical role in fostering stability, and the partnership with the United States further solidifies its capacity to address evolving global and regional security needs.