SUVA, Aug. 20 (Xinhua) -- Heads of missions, high commissioners and non-resident ambassadors accredited to Fiji are encouraged on Tuesday to share opportunities that would strengthen bilateral cooperation in various sectors including trade, investment, sports, tourism and multilateralism.

According to a government statement, speaking at the opening of the two-day Familiarization Visit program held in the Fijian capital Suva on Tuesday, Fiji's Minister for Defence, National Security and Foreign Affairs Inia Seruiratu said that Fiji is looking to strengthen bilateral cooperation with both developing and developed economies through facilitative arrangements that are mutually beneficial.

"While the global trading system has benefited immensely from the advent of the internet, e-commerce and new technology, enhancing our people-to-people links require easier cross-border access," he said.

"To that end, Fiji has been and is pursuing visa exemption arrangements with partners that are willing to do so. We all know how vital this is, to foster stronger relationships and enduring partnerships."

Seruiratu added that there are opportunities available for countries to jointly support development in the Pacific region.

"Fiji is committed to working in partnership with your countries to deliver targeted assistance to our regional neighbors. A key and obvious priority for the Pacific island countries is tackling climate change," he said.