Fiji has sought the Asian Development Bank’s support for the Nadi River Flood Alleviation Project, in particular the government’s bid for Green Climate Fund.

This was after the Attorney‑General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed‑Khaiyum reviewed Fiji's ongoing projects in partnership with the ADB and explored new opportunities for cooperation at a meeting with the new ADB Director‑General of the Pacific Department, Carmela Locsin. 

Government will also partner with the Japan International Cooperation Agency on the project which aims to boost the resilience of the Nadi economy to the increasing risk of flooding.

Sayed-Khaiyum says they have already completed feasibility studies for this project that have established a timeline for completion and the necessary funding requirements to make this critical project a reality. 

He says Nadi is the centre of tourism in Fiji and a hub of international travel for all the Pacific, and this project will go a long way in developing the Nadi economy and protecting Fijian communities situated along the riverbank from flooding.

During the meeting the Attorney‑General also briefed Director‑General Locsin on the growth and expectations for the Fijian economy and reviewed Fiji's preparatory efforts in the lead‑up to Fiji’s Presidency of COP23.

The Director‑General said she was impressed by the Fijian government's management of the economy, particularly the reform programme underway for the Civil Service and the fundamental changes made in economic policy to ensure Fiji's long‑term economic growth.