Fiji, July 7 -- Australia and Fiji have signed two landmark treaties that elevate their bilateral relationship into a new strategic partnership, with Prime Ministers Sitiveni Rabuka and Anthony Albanese describing the agreements as historic for both countries and the wider Pacific.

Speaking after the signing ceremony in Suva Monday, Prime Minister Rabuka said the agreements marked a defining moment in Fiji-Australia relations.

"Today represents a very defining moment in our relationship - Fiji-Australia relationship. Together as some of you witnessed, Prime Minister Albanese and I have just signed, with the President of Fiji as witnessing dignitary, he signed our treaty, the Vuvale Treaty and the Ocean of Peace Alliance, the Veitacini m...