Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh has stressed the importance of the relationship with Fiji after meeting with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Waugh and an RA delegation met with Rabuka and Fiji Rugby Union President John Sanday to discuss the importance of rugby union's role in diplomacy across the Pacific.
Catch the Wallaroos take on Fijiana on Saturday live and on-demand via Stan Sport.
This coincides with the Wallaroos' maiden trip to Suva as they prepare to face Fijiana on Saturday.
The Honourable Mr Rabuka was joined by Fiji Rugby Union President John Sanday and CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu, while RA was represented by Waugh, General Manager Women's Rugby Jilly Collins and Head of Pacific Partnerships Daniel Millis.
"Your visit today reaffirms the strong and growing partnership between Fiji and Rugby Australia - not just in sport, but in the shared values and aspirations we have for our people," Rabuka said in a statement.
"The success of our Fijian Drua teams stands as a testament to what can be achieved when nations come together to invest in talent, opportunity, and regional pride."
It comes as the two nations unveiled the Vuvale Bowl on Thursday, which will be contested in every game between the sides.
Rugby Australia and the Australian Government have been heavily involved with Fijian Rugby through the PacificAusSports program, assisting in the funding of the Fijian Drua men's and women's sides along with community initiatives.
"On behalf of Rugby Australia, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to The Honourable Mr Rabuka for the opportunity to discuss today the importance of our partnership now and into the future with Fiji," Waugh said.
"All parties recognise the crucial role rugby union plays in uniting the Pacific diplomatically, economically and culturally and the importance of deepening the already strong relationship that exists between Fiji and Australia through rugby.
"…Indeed, Saturday's historic 'Vuvale Bowl' between Fijiana and the Wallaroos in Suva has preceded a week of outstanding community engagements, school visits and meetings that will serve to foster even closer ties between our two unions and nations.
"Our discussions also explored areas for deeper cooperation and engagement between our two countries and RA looks forward to evolving those in partnership with our great friends in Fiji."
