Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Hon Viliame Gavoka urged the international community to move from ideas to action as he officially opened the 2025 Global Sustainable Tourism Conference at the Sofitel Resort in Denarau, Nadi on 5 August 2025.
Organised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council in collaboration with Tourism Fiji and key stakeholders, the event brought together global experts to exchange ideas, share strategies and promote sustainability within the tourism sector.
“We are not here to speak in abstractions, we are here to chart action, to share what works, to learn from one another and to harness tourism not just as an economic engine—but as a force for equity, preservation and hope,” Gavoka said during his keynote remarks.
He described tourism as the heartbeat of Fiji’s economy, employing more than 40,000 people nationwide. He stressed the need to align tourism initiatives with Fiji’s National Sustainable Tourism Framework, which prioritises inclusive growth, environmental stewardship and cultural integrity.
“Sustainability is no longer a choice. It must be at the heart of every strategy, every investment and every guest experience. We are partnering with local communities, traditional custodians and industry leaders to ensure that tourism uplifts those at the grassroots and protects the treasures that make Fiji unique,” he said.
Addressing delegates, Gavoka called on participants to translate their discussions into meaningful outcomes.
“We approach every conversation with urgency, every partnership with purpose and every solution with scale in mind. Let this conference be a turning point—where ideas are translated into action, commitments become policies and sustainability becomes the norm rather than the exception,” he said.
Gavoka also reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to its “Blue Ocean of Peace” vision, which champions dialogue, sustainability and regional solidarity across the Pacific.
“The Blue Ocean of Peace affirms our call for the non-militarisation of the Pacific, the defence of ocean biodiversity and the strengthening of regional solidarity. These collaborate in the respect for culture and sovereignty, the empowerment of women and youth and the pursuit of development that is inclusive, sustainable and future-focused,” he said.
The three-day conference aimed to promote sustainable practices across the tourism industry, drawing international participants to explore innovative solutions and collaborative efforts that align tourism development with environmental and social responsibility.
