Fiji welcomes Cook Islands' new high commissioner to deepen Pacific ties

Fiji's President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu welcomed Michael Henry as the new Cook Islands High Commissioner, marking a step to deepen a growing Pacific partnership. The appointment follows a 2023 development cooperation agreement between the two nations, which spans trade, connectivity, labor mobility, education, and climate change.

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It is an honour to begin my first diplomatic posting in Fiji.

Henry's predecessor, Jim Armistead, established the mission in Suva. President Lalabalavu emphasized the relationship's foundation in shared Pacific heritage, family ties, and mutual respect. Henry expressed his honor in taking up his first diplomatic posting in Fiji, a country he has long visited for tourism and family. He also honored his grandfather, Sir Albert Henry, a key figure in establishing the Pacific Islands Forum, stating his pride in continuing that legacy of regional cooperation.

Cook Islands Foreign Affairs and Immigration Minister Tingika Elikana highlighted Fiji's role as a gateway to regional networks and broader commercial links, including access to India and other emerging markets. Elikana noted that Fiji hosts significant private sector organizations, offering opportunities for the Cook Islands' small economy. He believes Henry's experience in governance and commerce makes him suitable for engaging with Fiji's dynamic private sector.

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Fiji is home to some of the Pacific’s largest private sector organisations and is a gateway to bigger trading partners, including India and other emerging markets. For a small economy like ours, this is where the opportunity lies.

Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, Secretary of Cook Islands Foreign Affairs and Immigration, stressed the Suva mission's importance for regional and economic engagement. She stated that the location provides proximity to Pacific decision-making centers and daily access to key organizations, partners, and markets. Wright-Koteka anticipates Henry's boardroom experience and regional perspectives will be invaluable. Henry brings over two decades of public and private sector experience, including roles in governance, directorships, and as chair of the Cook Islands Investment Corporation, with a background in infrastructure, tourism, economic growth, and regional cooperation.

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Our mission in Suva puts us close to the centre of Pacific decision-making, and gives us daily access to key regional organisations, partners and markets. Michael’s boardroom experience and regional perspectives will be invaluable.