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The Republic of Fiji Military Forces Blackrock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Camp was officially opened today in Nadi by the Australian Minister for International Development and Pacific, Senator Zed Seselja and Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.
In his keynote address, Senator Seselja said that the partnership between the Republic of Fiji Military Forces and the Australian Defence Force has delivered a facility of historic significance.
Mr Seselja said that the Blackrock facility was a symbol of Australia and Fijis shared values and interests and added that the world-class disaster relief facility will be an immense contribution to the region’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
In a pre-recorded virtual address, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Blackrock symbolizes the deep and lasting relationship between Fiji and Australia.
“I honour the 43 members of the RFMF who have delayed their Coral Warrior training to assist our flood recovery efforts along Australia’s East Coast.”
Mr Morrison said this was another example of the deep, personal and lasting friendship between the two nations.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said that the Blackrock facility is a world-class hub for Fiji’s security partnership.
“To our friends, the people and the government of Australia, I offer the heartful thanks of the Fijian people.”
Mr Bainimarama said that the Blackrock camp was a testament to the peace-loving spirit of Fijians and the security and prosperity that Fiji and Australia strive for across the Pacific and throughout the world.
He added that Fiji and Australia have embarked on this journey together because they recognize the need for cooperation to confront this century’s challenges.
Mr Bainimarama said that Fiji will continue to work with Australia and enlist expertise from New Zealand and the US to continue developing the peacekeeping facility in what it has to offer.
“Blackrock not only honours our 42 years peacekeeping legacy it hones the future mission of the RFMF.”
“While the pride of opening this facility is felt across the pacific, no one should be prouder than those who have built Fijis peacekeeping legacy through their service in the world’s conflict-ridden regions, those who are retired and those who looked down upon us from above. We salute them all today.”
The occasion was also attended by the Australian Defence Force Vice Admiral David Johnson and the Secretary for Defence Greg Moriarty.
