Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Mukhsinhodja Abdurakhmanov, Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Japan and concurrently accredited to the Republic of Fiji, presented his credentials to Fiji’s President, Ratu Naiqama Tawake Lalabalavu, the Dunyo News Agency reports.

The solemn ceremony featured an honor guard, the performance of the Uzbek national anthem, and, for the first time in history, the raising of Uzbekistan’s national flag on Fijian soil.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current status and prospects for cooperation in political, trade-economic, cultural-humanitarian, and educational fields, as well as tourism. The President of Fiji highlighted the friendly nature of Uzbek-Fijian relations despite the geographical distance, emphasizing their foundation on mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and shared values.

The head of state also praised Uzbekistan’s active foreign policy aimed at ensuring peace and sustainable development, noting the country’s strategic importance, rich natural resources, and human potential.

The appointment of Uzbekistan’s ambassador to Fiji, a first in the history of diplomatic relations between the two countries, was called a significant event by the Fijian side. The President of Fiji expressed gratitude to Uzbekistan’s leadership for its attention to developing bilateral and multilateral ties, conveyed greetings to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and wished peace and prosperity to the Uzbek people.

Diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and Fiji were established on June 16, 2010. Mukhsinhodja Abdurakhmanov has served as Uzbekistan’s ambassador to Japan since September 27, 2021.