Fiji must lead drug rehab priorities: Wong

Australia stands ready to assist Fiji in tackling its growing drug crisis, emphasizing that Fiji must take the lead in defining its rehabilitation priorities. Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong conveyed this message, stating that her country is prepared to collaborate but will not dictate Fiji's approach.

“

Australia says Fiji’s priorities will guide any future support for drug rehabilitation as the country responds to the growing drug crisis.

"We are ready to work with Fiji, but Fiji must identify the areas where support is most needed," Wong said. She stressed that Australia's role is to listen to the priorities identified by Fiji's leaders, health officials, and communities, ensuring that any assistance is tailored to local needs.

Wong highlighted the serious concern surrounding the link between drug use and HIV infections in Fiji. Australia remains committed to working with the Pacific nation to bolster its health response to these interconnected issues.

“

Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong says that they are ready to work with Fiji, but Fiji must identify the areas where support is most needed.

"I met with some very impressive people today across a whole range of sectors and professions who are working very hard in your response, Fiji’s response to this challenge, and we know that that partnership and improving people’s capability and capacity to do that is central to that," she added.

“

She adds they do not want to dictate Fiji’s response, but will listen to the priorities identified by Fiji’s leaders, health officials and communities.

Australia's commitment extends to considering how it can best assist with drug rehabilitation and other areas that Fiji designates as priorities. This collaborative approach aims to strengthen Fiji's overall capacity to address rising drug use and its associated health consequences.

“

Wong says the link between drug use and HIV is a serious concern, and Australia will continue working with Fiji to strengthen its health response.