THE non- resident Ambassador of the Republic of Ireland to Fiji, Noel White, has presented his letters of credence to President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau at Government House.
In presenting his credentials, Mr White said Ireland respected its relationship with Fiji and brought the warm wishes of Irish President Michael D Higgins.
In receiving Mr White, Ratu Epeli acknowledged the areas of co-operation between Fiji and Ireland in international forums such as the UN, particularly on the important issues of climate change, disarmament, sustainable development and peacekeeping.
He noted that Fijian and Irish troops had served well together under the UN banner in Lebanon and Iraq.
A government statement said Fiji and Ireland formally established full diplomatic relations on March 19, 2002, with the signing of a joint communiqué in Canberra, Australia by the resident heads of mission of both countries.
Prior to the formalisation of their diplomatic relations, Fiji and Ireland had worked closely in UN peacekeeping operations in the UNIFIL and other parts of the world.
Trade between Fiji and Ireland have consistently been in both countries' favour with Fiji exporting timber products, processed fish, garments, sugar, kava/yaqona and some fruits and vegetables.
Mr White is based in Canberra, Australia.