Permanent Mission of Fiji to the United Nations, New York

06/23/2026

🌊 At the 36th Meeting of States Parties to UNCLOS, Fiji joined Jamaica, Malta and Singapore in co-hosting the side event “UNCLOS: The Enduring Foundation for Ocean Governance. The discussion brought together leading experts to examine how UNCLOS continues to provide the legal framework for addressing contemporary ocean challenges—from climate change and sea-level rise to freedom of navigation and maritime security.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Tarakinikini underscored that UNCLOS cannot be separated into provisions that States choose to follow and those they do not; its strength lies in the balance of rights and obligations accepted as a single package. For Fiji—the first State to sign and ratify UNCLOS in 1982—the Convention remains the foundation of a stable, rules-based ocean order and a vital safeguard for the security, livelihoods and dignity of small island developing States. #🇫🇯FijiAtUN

06/19/2026

H.E. Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini delivered Fiji’s statement at this morning’s UN Security Council Open Debate on Women, Peace and Security in New York.
“Peace is decided with women,” he told the Council, “because humanity itself began with them.”
He reminded members that peace is not made in conference rooms alone — it is held in our homes, villages and communities, where Fiji’s women have always been its quiet custodians. He called for stronger protection of women peacebuilders, greater investment in women’s leadership before crises strike, and a real seat for women wherever decisions are made.
The Ambassador noted with pride that Fiji is the first Pacific nation to adopt a National Action Plan to Prevent Violence Against All Women and Girls. He also warned that for island nations, climate change is the defining security threat of our time — making the inclusion of women not only a matter of equality, but essential to our peace, resilience and survival.
To the women of Fiji: your strength is the foundation of our nation’s peace. Vinaka vakalevu.
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06/17/2026

Today H.E Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini joined fellow Permanent Representatives at the United Nations in signing the UN80 Charter — a renewed affirmation of the Charter’s enduring place at the heart of the global order under international law.

Eighty years on, the principles laid down in 1945 remain indispensable: sovereign equality, human rights, peaceful cooperation, and the rule of law among nations. At a moment when the multilateral system faces real strain, Fiji stands firm in its commitment to a strong, effective and inclusive United Nations — one that delivers for present and future generations.

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06/11/2026

🇫🇯 Statement delivered today at the UN Security Council, New York — 11 June 2026

This morning Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, H.E Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini had the honour of addressing the Security Council under the Presidency of Colombia on the maintenance of international peace and security in the Middle East.

Fiji spoke to three issues.

On Palestine — seventy-eight years after Resolution 181 authorised the creation of two states, only one exists. The time for affirmation has passed. This Council must act to realise a negotiated two-state solution, with Israel’s security guaranteed and Palestinian sovereignty recognised.

On Iran’s nuclear programme — Fiji’s position is clear and aligned with President Trump’s: Iran must not be permitted to acquire nuclear weapons. A nuclear-armed Iran does not stabilise the region — it triggers proliferation across it. The Non-Proliferation Treaty must be enforced without exception.

On the Strait of Hormuz — freedom of navigation is non-negotiable. This Council has already spoken through its own resolutions. It must now enforce what it has decided.

Three issues. Three decisions within this Council’s authority. Fiji urged it to make them.

🌊 Pacific voice. Global responsibility.

06/08/2026

Today, the Permanent Mission of Fiji joined the international community at the United Nations Secretary-General’s Annual Memorial Service, honouring UN civilian, military, and police personnel who gave their lives in service between 1 January and 31 December 2025.

Fiji remembers with deep gratitude Mr. Viliame Bale Tokalautawa, who served with UNAMA in Afghanistan. His dedication, courage, and sacrifice reflect the finest traditions of service — to the United Nations, and to Fiji.

06/05/2026

On Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026, the United Nations International Bazaar took place, featuring a vibrant Pacific booth that showcased Pacific artifacts, talent, and creativity, expertly led by the hardworking spouses of Pacific Permanent Representatives, Madam Amele Tabuya-Tarakinikini of Fiji, Madame Antoinette Merrillees, spouse of Australian Permanent Representative HE. Ambassador James Larson, and Madame Pepe Luteru, spouse of Samoan Permanent Representative Ambassador Fatumanava Luteru. Notably, Madam Tarakinikini serves as a board member of the United Nations Delegations Spouse's Club - UNDSC which organized this esteemed annual event at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The UN International Bazaar achieved great success this year, and congratulations are due to Madame Cecelia Milambo, spouse of the Zambian Permanent Representative & UNDSC President, UNDSC Board members and Bazaar committee for another outstanding achievement in uniting the global community to raise funds for a noble cause.

The event was honored by the presence of two high-ranking United Nations officials, namely the President of the United Nations General Assembly, Ms. Annalena Baerbock, and the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ms. Amina J. Mohammed. During the opening ceremony, Ms. Mohammed aptly described the event as 'a powerful demonstration of the diversity, unity, and shared humanity that brings the global community together.

Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the UN, H.E. Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini attended the bazaar alongside other UN Permanent Representatives who were invited to participate in the official opening.
Characteristically, the Pacific Ambassadors, diplomats, staff, spouses, families, and friends demonstrated remarkable support in typical Pacific fashion. The Fiji Mission staff and some friends from the Fijian diaspora's support in purchasing raffle tickets was particularly noteworthy, contributing significantly to the fundraising efforts. Raffle prizes were generously donated by the UN Secretary General's office and various UN Missions.

A highlight of the event this year was the m*f a captivating cultural performance by the Tuvalu Mission, featuring a traditional Tuvalu dance.

All proceeds from the Pacific booth will be it’s contribution towards supporting this year's identified priorities, including the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs global humanitarian efforts and several non-profit organizations. Notably, the children's corner of the Suva City Carnegie Library will benefit from the funds raised, joining last year's beneficiary, a literacy program in Papua New Guinea called Book Bilong Pikinini. We extend our sincerest gratitude to our Pacific family and friends for their kindness, support, and generosity, which collectively contributed to the success of the UN International Bazaar 2026.

05/31/2026

On 28 May, H.E. Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini delivered a statement on behalf of Fiji at the United Nations Security Council high-level open debate convened by China under the theme “Upholding the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter and Strengthening the UN-Centred International System”.

Ambassador Tarakinikini reaffirmed that the UN Charter and international law must apply universally, emphasizing that small states rely on the rules-based order for their security and equal voice in global affairs. Fiji also urged the Security Council to support the Pacific-led “Ocean of Peace” Declaration, promoting the Pacific as a region of peace, cooperation, environmental stewardship, and multilateralism while calling for UN reforms that strengthen representation and accountability.’

05/16/2026

ECOSOC SPECIAL MEETING - UN,HQ
Addressing Global Energy and Supply Disruptions 15 May 2026 | United Nations Headquarters, New York

The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) convened a special high‑level meeting to address the far‑reaching development impacts of ongoing energy and supply chain disruptions.

H.E Ambassador Filipo Tarakinikini, Chair of delivered the Group statement - issued a strong call for coordinated international action to address the immediate and escalating macroeconomic disruptions that are disproportionately impacting vulnerable economies like the Pacific. highlighted rising fuel prices — now more than double 2025 averages — and mounting debt‑servicing pressures as critical threats to economic stability across the Pacific.

Many Pacific governments have already declared states of emergency, reduced civil‑service salaries, restricted official travel, and implemented fuel‑conservation measures. The Group also warned that any decline in global labour demand could sharply reduce remittances, a vital lifeline for Pacific families.

PSIDS underscored that maritime security is inseparable from the rule of law at sea, reaffirming UNCLOS as the foundation of global trade. Any threat to internationally recognised maritime passages, undermines global stability and places the heaviest burden on those least responsible for the crisis.

The Group proposed three urgent actions: unlocking debt relief and concessional financing; accelerating renewable‑energy investment for SIDS; and ensuring SIDS vulnerabilities are fully reflected in UN system responses.

statement complements the statement delivered by HE Ambassador Jane Waetara of the Solomon Islands.

05/14/2026

05/12/2026

UNITED NATIONS DELEGATIONS SPOUSES’ CLUB ( )

Strengthening Cultural Diplomacy, Community Engagement, and Humanitarian Support

The United Nations Delegations Spouses’ Club (UNDSC) reaffirmed its commitment to promoting cultural understanding, international friendship, and humanitarian support within the United Nations diplomatic community in New York. As one of the UN’s longest‑standing social and cultural institutions, the brings together spouses of UN delegates from across the globe to build meaningful connections and advance charitable initiatives that reflect the core values of the United Nations.

This month, through the leadership of Mrs. Amele Tabuya-Tarakinikini, a valued Board Member of the Club, the Fiji Mission to the UN proudly hosted the UNDSC event in close collaboration with our family in New York.

Fiji showcased its rich traditions and cultural heritage through an array of artifacts and experiences, including masi (tapa) designs (as the theme of the day), wood carvings, a traditional kava welcome ceremony, Fijian delicacies, cultural dances, and the warmth of Fijian hospitality. Guests thoroughly enjoyed the celebration—made even more special as it followed the observance of Mother’s Day, which we were delighted to honor together as UN families.

The continues to play a vital role in welcoming diplomatic families to New York and strengthening the personal bonds that underpin global cooperation.

Looking ahead, the Club’s flagship event—the UN International Bazaar—will take place on . This annual gathering brings together dozens of countries to present national cuisine, crafts, and cultural performances. Proceeds from the Bazaar support UN‑aligned humanitarian programs focused on education, health, and community development.

In 2025, the Pacific booth won the best decorated booth and also raised a substantial amount of funds which were instrumental for community development - a school from Papua New Guinea was selected as one of the target community for support.