A partnership agreement has been signed between New Zealand and Fiji pledging "shared commitment and vision for regional solidarity".

The agreement was signed in Suva yesterday by Fijian Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe "Frank" Bainimarama and New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta, which states that it "affirms our joint ambition to elevate the relationship to a new level of expanded strategic co-operation in the years to come based on a foundation of shared values and equal partnership and achieved through trust and consultation.”

The key principles highlighting the relationship between both countries commit them to work closely on the issues of democracy, economic resilience, security, social wellbeing, climate change and disaster resilience, reports The New Zealand Herald.

The security factor includes a pledge to maintain sovereign authority over land and maritime territories, borders and exclusive economic zones, involving problems such as transnational crime and maritime security, as well as information sharing and training.

Moreover, the agreement includes the coordination of a response to possible pandemics in the future, gender equality and bolstering educational, cultural and sporting connections.

New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister said in a statement that the agreement showed the countries' joint ambition and commitment to common objectives "such as climate change, security, and sustainable economic recovery from Covid-19.”

Bainimarama added the signing of the agreement was a landmark achievement: "It illustrates our shared commitment and vision for regional solidarity. New Zealand has been a great partner and friend to Fiji and our partnership is the strongest ever.

"As a unified Pacific family, we take great pride in commemorating this momentous occasion which speaks to our historical links and lasting bonds of friendship that inspires initiatives for the empowerment of ordinary Fijians and create platforms for national and regional prosperity,” he added.

Mahuta’s four-day visit to Fiji is her first to another Pacific nation since she took up the position as Foreign Affairs Minister.