The Australian Assistant Defence Minister and Minister for International Development in the Pacific, Honorable Alex Hawke was the chief guest in a ground breaking ceremony at the RFNS Stanley Brown Naval Base at Walu Bay on Tuesday 3rd December 2019.
Also present at the auspicious occasion was his Fiji counterpart, the Honorable Minister of Defence and National Security, Inia Seruiratu. The symbolic event will begin the construction of a wharf and shore support facilities for the Fiji Navy and Maritime services. Among dignitaries present was Mr John Feakes the High Commissioner of Australia to Fiji, the Acting Commander Republic of Fiji Navy, Commander Marika Vosawale and Deputy Commander RFMF, Brigadier General Aziz Mohammed, Senior Officers, Officers, servicemen and women.
Hon. Seruiratu acknowledged the Australian Government for their support as an intimate regional neighbor and a friend.
” There is the need for the Fiji Navy to have the best platforms, infrastructure, technologies and personnel to protect our sovereign, national territorial integrity and security,” Hon Seruiratu said.
“To enhance practical maritime domain awareness with our Exclusive Economic Zone.” Hon Seruiratu stated.
Hon Hawke thanked Fiji’s efforts in contributing to regional maritime security. He said that the new wharf facilities will provide top notch services for new assets of the Fiji Navy. In addition to this, Hon Hawke said that through the Maritime Security Program, the Australian Government is providing Patrol Boats throughout the Pacific.
“To make sure that we have economic security, regional security and countries continue to extend their range of operation in the vital work they are doing.” Hon Hawke said.
On Thursday 5th December this week, the RFMF will be holding a commissioning ceremony for the Hydrographic vessel ‘’Volasiga’ at the RFNS Stanley Brown Base.
[unitegallery rfns_groundbreaking]
