He will visit the Blackrock military camp site near Nadi on Saturday with the local defence minister, in a bid to spruik ties between the nations.

"We are living in a world of transition where a shifting of power dynamics is taking place," Mr Morrison said.

"Which means our friendship and partnership with countries like Fiji, in our own backyard, is even more important."

Australia inked a deal with Fiji earlier this year to upgrade the training base, which is set for completion by the end of next year.

Mr Morrison touched down in Suva on Friday afternoon for a one-on-one meeting with local prime minister Frank Bainimarama.

The pair had a friendly embrace in the Fijian humidity, with Mr Morrison quick to take his fogged spectacles off as he shook hands with officials.

During the meeting Mr Morrison told his Fijian counterpart he had agreed to double personal imports of kava to four kilograms and put commercial imports on the map.

The bitter drink, which has mild sedative and euphoric properties, is culturally important in Pacific communities but has had import restrictions in Australia for many years.

Although the leaders didn't speak about China during their meeting, its presence in Fiji is clearly visible in roadworks and construction across the island.

The pair also had a working lunch with Fijian and Australian ministers, including Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Pacific Minister Alex Hawke.

While Mr Bainimarama is a vocal champion for climate action, it's understood he respects the current role coal plays in the Australian economy and power system.

However, the issue is unlikely to fade into the background.

Energy Minister Angus Taylor has this week said he wants coal-fired power stations to remain in the system as long as possible because he thinks it will reduce power bills.

Despite the climate change roadbump - which came to a head after the Pacific Islands Forum - Mr Morrison's ties to the church have resonated with Fiji.

Rugby league is also being used as a key diplomatic tool, with the PM's XIII women's and men's team playing their Fijian counterparts on Friday night, in a first for the two nations.

The Australian teams won their games and the sportsmanship was apparent for both post-match, with the rival teams standing in a circle for a Fijian gospel, prayer and to cheer each other on.

Mr Morrison also confirmed a Fijian team would be part of Australia's rugby league competition in lower levels of the game, which can help Fijians find a path to the NRL.

The prime minister also revealed Australian and Fijian troops were awaiting final UN approvals before going on a co-deployment to the disputed region between Syria and Israel.

The mission could occur within weeks, with government officials quick to emphasise it is unrelated to the US withdrawal on the other side of the country, and subsequent Turkish incursion.

Australian Associated Press