THE Fiji Independent Traveller Backpackers Association has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Tourism and the Fiji Police Force.
The MOU will focus primarily on the safety and wellbeing of tourists who utilise the services provided by backpacking resorts in the country.
Acknowledging the positive development for the backpacking sector of the tourism industry, FITBA president Tui Kabu said they were pleased to form a new partnership with the ministry and the police.
"The message that we got was that the Fiji Police Force and the Ministry of Tourism and the association will work together in maintaining the security of tourists when they come to Fiji," Mr Kabu said.
He said the safety of visitors was a key factor to ensure the sector attracted more visitors into the country.
The new agreement was signed by Police Commissioner Brigadier General Ioane Naivalurua and permanent secretary for Primary Enterprises and Tourism Elizabeth Powell.
The association recently had its annual Fiji Independent Travellers Industry Forum in Nadi on Friday.
There was a good turn out by members as they discussed marketing strategies for their resorts in the coming year.
The theme for this forum was "Opportunities arising from Global changes".