Fiji is partnering with New Zealand's intelligence service to overhaul its security sector, the government said on Wednesday. The six-month program aims to improve coordination and create a stronger intelligence framework. This comes as the US warned of suspected China-linked cyber intrusions targeting a regional organization in Fiji.
The partnership between Fiji and New Zealand addresses growing concerns about cybersecurity and intelligence sharing in the Pacific, a region of increasing geopolitical competition. The suspected cyber intrusions highlight potential vulnerabilities for regional communications and sensitive data.
Fiji is seeking assistance from New Zealand's intelligence agency to reform its security sector, according to the Fijian government. The partnership, approved by Fiji's cabinet, will involve a six-month assessment of the country's intelligence structure and recommendations for reforms aimed at improving coordination and information-sharing. This initiative comes amid heightened concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the Pacific region, highlighted by a US warning about suspected China-linked cyber intrusions into a regional organization based in Fiji. The US Embassy stated that hackers maintained access to the organization's network for several days and that stolen data could compromise sensitive communications among Pacific island nations. China's embassy in Suva denied the allegations, accusing the US of making unsubstantiated claims and advocating for dialogue on cyber risks. The intelligence review occurs as Pacific governments navigate increasing competition for influence and face pressure to protect critical communications infrastructure.
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