US and Fiji prepare agreement on US military deployment

By Alimat Aliyeva

The United States intends to sign an agreement with Fiji that will allow the deployment of US Armed Forces units on the island, Azernews reports.

"We are announcing the start of negotiations on an agreement regarding the status of the armed forces. Its conclusion will enable us to expand bilateral cooperation in defense by increasing the number of exercises and military collaborations," the Pentagon chief said.

He clarified that the agreement would allow the United States to "deploy or redeploy forces in support of Fiji and assist in conducting joint exercises with the Fijians." At the same time, he emphasized that the United States has no plans to establish a permanent military base on the island. "We have no intention of establishing any permanent base here in Fiji," Austin stated.

In addition to strengthening military ties, the agreement is also seen as part of a broader strategy to increase US influence in the Pacific region, amid growing concerns over China's expanding presence in the area. The US and Fiji have long enjoyed strong diplomatic relations, and this agreement is expected to further solidify their partnership, ensuring regional stability and security.