There is a need to continue to invest in nuclear science as a means to achieve sustainable development, health, prosperity, and peace for all. Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, Andrew Tukana made those remarks at the 47th Regional Cooperative Agreement (RCA) meeting at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort on Denarau on Tuesday. “The benefits of the RCA to Fiji are tangible, lasting, and deeply appreciated. But beyond the technical assistance, RCA represents something even more powerful: a shared commitment to peaceful progress through science,” Mr Tukana said. Mr Tukana attested that Fiji’s increased engagements the last three years with 21 other member states of the RCA have broaden and strengthen relations and improved capabilities. “Fiji’s agriculture sector currently has the most RCA projects and possibly the highest number of staff have been trained under this programme,” he said. “For the first time, Fiji has submitted a project proposal which has been approved. It will be implemented to address issues faced by our farmers cultivating vegetative propagated crops.” He commended all for prioritising the meeting and utilising resources and time to discuss issues of common interest for the people in the Asia-Pacific region through the lenses of research, development, and training. “This opportunity will herald a new era in our relations and strengthen cooperation. Let us continue to build on this partnership,” he said. Collaboration has produced the following benefits; Strengthening agriculture and food security; Combating climate change and protecting the environment Advancing human health and medical services; Building human capital; Creating a platform of regional solidarity and Building new networks. The RCA is a framework for solidarity, knowledge-sharing, and scientific advancement. The agreement was established in 1972 under the auspices of International Automic Energy Agency (IAEA); with 22 countries in Asia and Pacific, including Fiji encompassing the peaceful use of nuclear science and technology to address real-world problems. Furthermore, the sub-regional approach to the Pacific Islands (SAPI) programme has supported Pacific challenges with a tailored approach to meeting specific needs in complementing respective priorities with a focus on resilience to building better and greener economies. “This tailored approach drives the development and delivery of areas where nuclear science and technology contribute to a broad spectrum of projects with the IAEA Technical Cooperation Programme in the Pacific, to which my fellow Pacific Island Country Observers can agree on,” he said. Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj