Fiji will soon have a state-of-the-art meteorological centre in Nadi, thanks to a $27 million grant from the Japanese government. During the official signing ceremony at the Fiji Meteorological Services (FMS) office at Laucala Bay, Suva, yesterday, Minister for Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau said the centre would enhance disaster risk reduction capabilities for Fiji and Pacific Islands countries. “This is quite a substantial assistance, not only to the Fijian government, but also to the Pacific region in terms of improving meteorological services and disaster risk reduction,” Ro Filipe said. The two-storey building will feature a regional training centre and awareness facility on the first floor, and a regional instrument centre on the ground floor. Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, highlighted that Fiji is the first Pacific nation to receive this new type of grant. “This project represents a significant investment of 1.739 billion Yen, approximately 11.6 million US dollars,” Mr Rokuichiro said. The centre will incorporate green principles, including solar-generated power, and will be used for hosting local and international meetings and conferences. Construction is set to start later this year, involving Japanese and Fijian contractors. The centre will become a hub for cyclone forecasting and early warning systems, utilising advanced technologies including meteorological satellites. “We look forward to learning from Japan in terms of advanced technologies and capacity building,” Ro Filipe said. Feedback: kaneta.naimatau@fijisun.com.fj