Fiji joins Cook Islands in Celebrating 60 Years of Independence

Suva 15 August, 2025 – The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, joined the Government and people of the Cook Islands in celebrating their 60th anniversary of self-governance at a Tree Planting Ceremony held on Thursday, 15 August 2025, at Thurston Gardens, Suva.

Hon. Gavoka congratulated the Government and people of the Cook Islands on this historic milestone and reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. He highlighted the warm relations between Fiji and the Cook Islands since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1998, further reinforced by the opening of the Cook Islands High Commission in Suva in 2022 and the signing of the Development Cooperation Agreement in 2023.

The event was attended by Hon. Tingika Elikana, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration of the Cook Islands, together with dignitaries and guests. The planting of a Dilo tree symbolized growth, resilience, and the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Hon. Gavoka also acknowledged the more than 3,000 Fijians who now call the Cook Islands home, expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended by the Cook Islands Government. He reaffirmed Fiji’s shared vision with the Cook Islands for a peaceful and united Blue Pacific.

Please click here to read the minister’s speech.

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