The Melanesian Spearhead Group plans to deploy a formed police unit of 30 personnel from member countries including Fiji that will assist the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit this November.

This was highlighted by Minister for Defense and National Security, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola while opening the 2nd MSG Regional Security Strategy at Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi this morning.       

He says Fiji has become more prone to both internal and external threats as people in the sub region are the gateway to Asia and the Pacific and if not addressed and properly maintained, could escalate to more bigger issues.

Kubuabola says that complex and multifaceted security challenges include illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, transnational crime, drug smuggling, human trafficking, cybersecurity challenges, climate change and non‑traditional challenges.

The two‑day meet includes country delegates from Fiji, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands and Indonesia, who are working towards a collaborative security strategy for the MSG region.

Ratu Inoke noted the sub region's prosperous development and the vast resources at its disposal.

Meanwhile the two‑day meet includes country delegates from Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Indonesia and the MSG Secretariat, led by Director General, Ambassador Amena Yauvoli and Chairman of the Regional Security Strategy, Ambassador Esala Teleni.