JHOPS Virtual Meeting

Common security challenges in the Pacific during the global pandemic were discussed at the Joint Heads of Pacific Security (JHOPS) virtual meeting held yesterday.

This year’s meeting focused on COVID-19 recovery in the Pacific, security challenges and the reopening of international borders.

In attendance were the heads of defence, police, immigration, customs and representatives from regional bodies.

Fiji was represented by the Permanent Secretary for Defence, National Security & Policing, Mr Manasa Lesuma, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commissioner of Police Brigadier General Sitiveni Qiliho who spoke on regional cooperation, particularly in relation to longer term responses to COVID-19.

Fiji's Commissioner of Police acknowledged the support of regional security partners in supporting law enforcement efforts through the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police, as it enabled the effective delivery of capability and capacity building programs despite the challenges brought on by the global pandemic.

Brigadier General Qiliho said Fiji was looking forward to welcoming back tourists to Fiji with the opening of international borders.

He added as security leaders they had a vital role to play in supporting their respective Government’s recovery plans, as security and stability was important to ensuring prosperity, and the meeting was a great opportunity for the security heads to discuss challenges and solutions to the regions common problems.