Filji Minister for Immigration Viliame Naupoto met with New Zealand’s Minister for Customs Casey Costello in Suva as part of the overall effort by both countries to enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of border and regional security.
During their discussions, Naupoto and Costello s exchanged views on strengthening collaboration to combat transnational crimes including drug and human trafficking, as well as the need to improve mechanisms for real-time data sharing and coordinated border intelligence. The ministers also highlighted the importance of a united regional response to growing threats such as cybercrime and irregular migration.
Naupoto expressed Fiji’s interest in enabling ePassport access through New Zealand’s SmartGate system—similar to the arrangement already in place with Australia—which would streamline the travel experience for Fijian passport holders and support more efficient border control processes.
For her part, Costello reaffirmed New Zealand’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Fiji, acknowledging Fiji’s central role in Pacific border security.
“Fiji is not only a close friend but also a critical partner in our shared efforts to safeguard the Pacific. We are committed to enhancing our joint capabilities to detect and prevent illegal activities while at the same time making legitimate travel more efficient for our people,” she said.
She further noted that improved information exchange and the sharing of best practices between agencies would be key to lifting both nations’ ability to respond swiftly and effectively to evolving border challenges.
“This visit reaffirms our shared values, mutual trust and the importance of working together as Pacific partners,” she said.
