Strengthening partnerships vital

Submitted by Narayan24 on Thu, 28/01/2010 - 9:07am

Speaking at the International Customs Day event PS Tikoduadua said this is a challenge especially since Fiji wants to play its part as a good member of the World Customs Organisation.

PS Tikoduadua added that as Fiji's border security has been exposed to smuggling and human trafficking, capacity building is vital in fostering trade.

“Government is keen on spearheading and maintaining trade relationships as we are part of the global village, however we need to look at critical areas such as border controls and border security,” he said.

While Fiji values working with regional organisations, PS Tikoduadua adds that he would to see a much more comprehensive approach to our regional security in various terms of trade, but also in the protection of our borders in many other areas as Fiji is working towards achieving the Millineum Development Goals."

The importance of strengthening partnerships between stakeholders such as immigration, police, FIRCA and the navy is critical in fostering trade, PS Tikoduadua added.

Similar sentiments were shared by the Chief Executive Officer FIRCA, Jitoko Tikolevu who said that by fostering partnerships between different agencies will enable Fiji's border control to be protected and for them to work smarter and better in addressing issues affecting our border controls.

“It will enable us to minimise risk in terms of things that should not be allowed,” Mr Tikolevu added.