SUVA, Fiji -- Under Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly completed a partnership-building visit to Fiji on Sep. 27, 2018.

Modly was in the area to meet with senior civilian and military officials to discuss bilateral and multilateral maritime security issues and efforts.

Meetings were held with Acting Minister of Defense, the Honorable Jone Usamate; Deputy Permanent Secretary of Defence, Ilai Moceica; Deputy Commander Fijian Military Forces, Brigadier General Aziz Mohammed; Chief of Fijian Navy, Capt. Tawake and Commissioner of Police, Sitiveni Qiliho.

Modly discussed, among other topics, improving military-to-military cooperation, shared security interests, and a mutual desire for safety, security & prosperity in the region.

“I’m very glad to be here to reaffirm our friendship with the people of Fiji and the armed forces of Fiji,” said Modly. “I look forward to continuing our partnership and our relationship going forward.”

Modly's stop in Suva is part of a multi-nation visit to the Oceania region focused on strengthening partnerships and cooperation.