Mobil Oil (Fiji) Country Manager, Mr. Adi Tamara,
Management and Staff of Mobil Oil (Fiji),
Invited guests,
Members of the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I’m pleased to be part of the unveiling of Mobil Oil Fiji’s premium fuel tank.
This newly constructed premium fuel tank is a result of the continued determination of the Mobil Oil (Fiji) group.
Despite many challenges, including Cyclone Harold and COVID-19, Mobil has continued its plan to ensure reliable supply of fuel in Fiji. Due to the pandemic – investment plans of some businesses may have been on hold. It’s reassuring to see Mobil Oil (Fiji) continuing to invest in its presence in Fiji.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Earlier this year, Mobil Oil (Fiji) has supported various government initiatives to keep FIjians safe during the pandemic. These corporate social responsibility initiatives have certainly made a positive impact on the lives of Fijians.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Mobil Oil (Fiji) is committed to meeting growing demands for energy, the group, globally, strives to reduce environmental impacts at the same time.
I am told, Mobil Oil, globally, has been involved in the forefront of climate research for four decades, understanding and working with the world’s leading experts on climate – till date, these many hours of dedication has seen Mobil’s investment of ten billion dollars to develop lower-emission energy solutions since year 2000.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
This ties in well with our national and international commitment. Fiji has ensured that our national policies adequately cover the commitments given at the international level.
Our achievements, both at the national and international level, are driven through the leadership of our Hon. Prime Minister. Fiji has been active in the global arena, highlighting the plight of small island states, in dealing with development and climate change.
The 5-Year and 20-Year National Development Plan (NDP) has set the foundation that is aligned with global commitments, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
With the vision and commitment to net-zero emissions, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport has worked on national standards for fuel. Currently, Fiji is compliant with Euro 4 compatible standards for unleaded petrol and Euro 5 for diesel. This is ensuring that the emissions of greenhouse gases are reduced and eliminated.
We want to acknowledge the active contribution of Mobil and all other fuel importers and key stakeholders. Their contribution is their commitment to working with the Fijian Government in achieving our emission reduction goals.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Mobil’s investment is timely, given that the Fijian Government is currently undertaking a number of reforms, which includes the review of the current Foreign Investment Act.
The new “Investment Act” once in place will allow for streamlining of a number of processes, eliminate the difference between the domestic and foreign investors and accord internationally recognised rights such as the Most Favored Nation and the National Treatment.
With these reforms, Investment Fiji, supported by our Trade Commissions, will significantly realign its focus on marketing Fiji as a destination for targeted investment. Specifically, we’re looking at areas such as green growth, and technology for sustainable development in a post pandemic era.
Additionally, the centralised “bizFIJI” portal will provide investors, both local and foreign, information on Starting a Business and Obtaining Construction Permits.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I wish to also acknowledge the efforts applied by Mobil Oil (Fiji) in response to COVID19 and the safety measures placed for the wellbeing of staff and customers. It is promising to see guiding principles set by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services being supported, during the height of the pandemic.
I am equally pleased to see that Care Fiji (App) is being supported by Mobil Oil (Fiji). Examples set by Mobil on these initiatives will ensure that Fiji continues to be safe for both Fijians and our visitors.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Coming back to today’s event and closing my address, I would like to congratulate Mobil Oil (Fiji) and all the stakeholders for this significant investment in Suva and this wonderful facility.
Vinaka Vakalevu. Thank You.