Managing Director TOTAL Limited, Kazi Rahman,
Vice President Sales and Marketing TOTAL Limited,
Invited Guests,
Fellow Fijians,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bula Vinaka, and a very good morning to you all.
I’m pleased to join you today to be part of the re-opening of TOTAL’s renovated service station.
This newly renovated facility is a result of the perseverance of the TOTAL group and affiliated stakeholders.
TOTAL started its operations in Fiji in 2006, and since has expanded to 31 service stations throughout the country. Due to the impacts of COVID – some businesses have either closed or put investment plans on hold. So, it’s encouraging to see TOTAL continuing to invest in its brand and its people.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
In 2014, TOTAL opened a Photovoltaic solar system at their Vuda Point Terminal. In April, $2 Million was invested moving 7 of their service stations Solar operated.
And now – this project is part of TOTAL’s $8 million investment package that they plan to roll out over the next few months and year.
TOTAL provides a full range of environmentally friendly fuels and increased energy efficiency – with plans to equip 12 existing service stations with solar panels.
This refurbishment will strengthen TOTAL’s network identity with a strong interrelation to safety, installations that are environmentally sound and sales outlets that are more tasteful, blending harmoniously into the environment.
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, is 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.
The Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport is responsible for ensuring that consumers get the accurate volume of fuel that is purchased and that it meets the required national standards of Euro 4 for unleaded petrol and Euro 5 for diesel in line with our national policies.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is also notable to mention that TOTAL has invested into Fijian communities by the means of contributing and financing corporate social responsibility initiatives, making a positive impact on the lives of Fijians.
This investment is very timely, given that the Fijian Government is currently undertaking a number of reforms, which includes of the review of 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 look 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 would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the employees of TOTAL, who have so generously contributed FJ$14,631.52 from their own salaries to the COVID19 Response Fund, in addition to the company’s contribution – we cannot thank you enough for your kindness in such challenging times.
I wish to also acknowledge the efforts applied by the TOTAL team in response to COVID19 and the safety measures placed for the wellbeing of staff and customers. It was welcoming to see hand sanitizers, “Be Safe” floor stickers and social distancing measures being practiced during the height of the pandemic.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Coming back to today’s event and closing my address, I would like to warmly congratulate TOTAL and all the stakeholders for this significant investment in Lautoka, for this wonderful facility, which I am sure Fijians will enjoy.
Vinaka Vakalevu. Thank You.