Fiji to sign MOU with North Korea

Fiji will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK/North Korea) towards the end of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) meeting held in Tehran, Iran later this week.

Cabinet based its decision on a submission made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola.

Fiji’s foreign policy accedes to an “open door policy” which is underpinned by Pillar 11 of the Road Map on “Enhancing Global Integration and International Relations” and based on this approach Fiji continues to openly engage with all members of the international community.

“The MOU is expected to set the foundation for expansion of bilateral consultation and exchange of views to facilitate cooperation and exchange in the fields of politics, economy and culture between the two countries,” Kubuabola said in a statement.

Kubuabola added that, “Both countries share common interests with respect to emphasis of sovereignty and independence.”

The MOU is also expected to complement Fiji’s “Look North” Foreign Policy to continue to expand its’ international bid to move away from being overly reliant on our traditional bilateral partners, added Kubuabola.

“Despite the geographical distance and differing levels of development, both countries are cognizant of the common development needs and challenges,” Kubuabola said.

By Indrani Krishna