The recent visit to Fiji by Japan's Minister for Environment, Nobiteru Ishihara was an opportunity for both countries to reaffirm the need to strengthen relations in the area of climate change, the Fijian government said Friday.

Ishihara met with Fiji's Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ratu Inoke Kubuabola whilst on an official visit to Fiji earlier this week, where the two agreed to continue their commitment towards working on mutual areas of interest relating to climate change and other environmental issues, according to Fiji's Ministry of Information.

Ishihara reiterated the support from the Japanese government on the current progress made by Fiji towards democratic elections and welcomed the new constitution of Fiji. In addition to this, Ishihara also confirmed his support on working with Fiji on environment-related issues including climate change.

Kubuabola thanked Ishihara for the support provided to Fiji by the Japanese government, and requested for the support and aid assistance from Japan in setting up of the Pacific Island Development Forum Secretariat. Endi