The 2nd Surface Unit of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2023 (IPD23), JS SHIMOKITA made a port call at Suva, the Republic of Fiji.

From August 17 to 20, the 2nd Surface Unit of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2023 (IPD23), JS SHIMOKITA made a port call at Suva, the Republic of Fiji. During the port call, the Commander of the 2nd Surface Unit of the IPD23, Commander of Mine Warfare Force, Rear Admiral KANEZASHI Motoyuki paid a courtesy visit to H.E. KAWAKAMI Fumihiro, Ambassador of Japan to Fiji, and held exchange programs such as sports exchange, reception, special public viewing on ship, and mangrove tree planting to deepen friendly relations and trust with Fiji. He also received encouragement from Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, General YOSHIDA Yoshihide.
RADM KANEZASHI said, “Bula! (“Hello” in Fijian) I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the warm and cordial hospitality I received from the people of Fiji. During the port call, Japan Maritime and Ground Self-Defense Forces, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, and U.S. and New Zealand Forces’ members who are participating in ‘Pacific Partnership 2023’ formed mixed teams and played rugby, Fiji’s national sport, in the rain to show mutual respect. They also sweat together by playing volleyball. Additionally, in mangrove tree planting conducted as part of ‘Pacific Partnership 23,’ everyone, including Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, became muddy regardless of their ranks, titles or nationality to contribute to Fiji’s environmental protection. I am very pleased that we deepened friendship with Fiji through the port visit. The JMSDF will continue to attach great importance to our commitment to the region and promote dialogue and cooperation with Pacific Island nations in order to respond to security challenges in the region and realize a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. Vinaka! (“Thank you” in Fijian)”
The Self Defense Fleet maintains readiness, puts all its efforts to defend Japan by enhancing the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. Alliance, and contributes to peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region for the realization of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” in cooperation with allied and like-minded navies.

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