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Fiji strengthens ties with IRENA

April 14, 2025 10:20 am

Fiji's Ambassador to Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya (left), Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Francesco La Camera. [Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Facebook]

Fiji has reaffirmed its strong national commitment to climate action.

Fiji’s Ambassador to Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, Siddiq Faizal Riyad Koya, has outlined the country’s targets of achieving 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2036, providing electricity access to all Fijians by 2026, and reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.

Koya has formally presented his Letter of Credence to Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Francesco La Camera, accrediting him as Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the organization.

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The official ceremony was held at IRENA Headquarters in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

IRENA is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated exclusively to promoting the widespread adoption and sustainable use of renewable energy worldwide.

Reflecting on the outcomes of the 15th IRENA General Assembly in January 2025, Ambassador Koya reiterated the call made by Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau, on the need to amplify the voice of Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in IRENA.

He highlighted the existential threats posed by climate change to the Pacific region, including rising sea levels, intensified tropical cyclones, and increased flooding.

Ambassador Koya also highlighted Fiji’s call for improved access to renewable energy financing, particularly for solar-powered solutions in rural communities, schools, and healthcare centres.

In his response, Director-General La Camera expressed IRENA’s appreciation for Fiji’s leadership in the Pacific on climate action, acknowledging the nation’s stable governance, progressive energy policies, and investment-friendly environment.

He also expressed IRENA’s intention to convene a Pacific Regional Renewable Investment Forum in late 2025 or early 2026.

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