Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Ceremonially Hands Over Traditional Materials from the Prime Minister of Fiji to the Vaka Valo Association

Permanent Secretary Collin Beck hands over the materials to the representatives of the Vaka Valo Association during the ceremony.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade held a formal handover ceremony to present traditional gifts offered by the Prime Minister of Fiji’s delegation to the voyagers of the Tepuke in Honiara during the 54th Pacific Islands Forum.

The event followed the traditional Vakamamaca ceremony, performed by the Fijian Prime Minister’s delegation to honour the Tepuke crew who sailed from Temotu to Honiara.

The Vakamamaca—a customary ritual marking respect for those completing a long sea voyage—symbolically provides voyagers with dry clothing, acknowledging both their endurance and safe arrival.

This cultural exchange took place ahead of the recent signing of the Fiji–Solomon Islands Security Agreement, framed by the Ocean of Peace Declaration and the celebrated voyage of the traditional canoe.

The ceremony highlighted the enduring cultural bonds and solidarity between Pacific voyaging nations. It stands as a powerful testament to shared heritage, reaffirming collective commitment to protecting, practising, and passing on traditional knowledge for generations to come.

—MFAET PRESS RELEASE