The Republic of Fiji Navy (RFNS) today (Friday 24th July 2020) celebrated its 45th Anniversary after it was established as part of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in 1974. The celebration at the RFNS Stanley Brown was officiated by the Defence Minister Honorable Inia Seruiratu.
While speaking during the Navy day celebration, Hon Seruiratu stated that he was overwhelmed with the pace of progress of the RFN as a military unit and mentioned that the Fijian Government will continue to work with the RFN in their efforts to protect the country and its resources in the maritime boundaries.
“The Fiji Navy being a much later inclusion into the Force is now 45 years old, and I have been impressed with the direction and pace of your development. The Fiji Navy has come a long way and the establishment of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea in 1982 added the responsibilities of the surveillance and patrols of our huge maritime boundary to maintain national sovereignty and protect maritime resources,” Hon Seruiratu said.
“I acknowledge the Fiji Navy’s efforts in aspiring towards its vision of being a smart Naval Force capable of being deployed at any time to respond to any situation, the future for the Fiji Navy is bright and Government will continue to support the institution for the protection of the country.”
Furthermore, Hon Seruiratu mentioned that with the risk posed by COVID-19, there was a need for all RFN personnel to adopt certain traits that will allow the Government and the Fiji Navy to work on when combatting these issues.
“The risks posed by COVID-19 are an added challenge…and given the role as guardian of our maritime space…we will need to be vigilant in terms of mariners that travel on yachts and also merchant vessels…I am confident that we can mitigate all challenges that may arise. This will need officers, senior NCOs, and junior rates to conduct yourselves in the highest ethical manner, professionalism, and dedication to duty. You must strive to uphold your institutional values which are pillars that guided and shaped the Navy today and will continue to do so in the future,” Hon Seruiratu continued.
In addition to this, Hon Seruiratu also highlighted several projects which will include the construction of a new Maritime Essential Services Center and a new wharf infrastructure which has been an ongoing plan to accommodate the new Guardian Class Patrol Boats
The 45th Navy Day celebrations also saw the inclusion of the Honorable Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, ex-servicemen and members of the RFMF.
