Finance
Indian President Droupadi Murmu embarked an important two-day state visit to Fiji, marking a watershed moment in the two countries’ diplomatic relations.
On Tuesday, President Droupadi Murmu spoke to the Fijian Parliament, emphasizing India-Fiji’s “close ties” and “shared values”.
President Murmu landed in Suva for the first phase of her three-nation journey, which began with Fiji.
Starting her address with “Namaskar. Ni Sa Bula (Fijian greeting that means good evening),” the President said, “It is my honour to meet you all, the elected representatives of Fiji, in this temple of democracy. I bring to you the greetings of 1.4 billion of your brothers and sisters in the largest democracy in the world, India. I thank the honourable Speaker for giving me this opportunity. This is the reflection of the close relations between our two countries.”
President Droupadi Murmu Conferred “Companion of the Order of Fiji” in Capital Suva
During this meeting, President Murmu was honored with the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest award bestowed by the Fijian government. This renowned award represents India and Fiji’s mutual respect and strong connections.
Murmu expressed her gratitude for the conferment, saying it is a “reflection of the deep ties between the two nations.” She also thanked President Katonivere for inviting her on her first visit to Fiji.
She highlighted the shared values of democracy, diversity, equality, and commitment to liberty, dignity, and rights that unite India and Fiji. “These shared values are eternal and shall continue to guide us ahead,” she said.
The President emphasized the similarities between the two nations and “vibrant democracies” despite the “vast difference” in size, saying, “Almost ten years ago, Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, underlined some basic values that unite India and Fiji. These include our democracy, the diversity of our communities, our belief that all humans are created equal, and our dedication to each individual’s liberty, dignity, and rights. These shared principles are everlasting and will continue to lead us forward.”
President Murmu lauded Fiji’s “gentle way of life, deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs, an open and multicultural environment,” and stated that the world has much to learn from Fiji.
“No wonder Fiji is the place where the rest of the world comes to find its happiness,” she remarked.
Reflecting on the historical ties, she noted the arrival of “Girmitiya” workers (Indentured labourers) from India over 145 years ago.
“Though their early life here was filled with danger and hardship, it is heartening to know how the “Girmitiyas” and their descendants have been embraced by this country. In return, they have contributed immensely to the building of their new homeland through their hard work and diligence,” the President added in Hindi, jokingly saying, “I hope you understand Hindi.”
She also announced new projects, including a Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, to meet the needs of the Fijian people and the wider Pacific region.
President Murmu reiterated India’s commitment, as a “powerful voice of the Global South,” to climate justice, promising to push for climate finance and technology for developing countries. “We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice,” she added.
“As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with Fiji to build a stronger, resilient, and more prosperous nation,” President Murmu said.
Later, President Murmu also addressed the Indian Community Reception.
Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Viliame Gavoka, the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, P.S. Karthikeyan, and other government officials greeted President Murmu at the airport.
This is the first visit by an Indian president to Fiji. She will visit Fiji from August 5-7, at the request of President Katonivere.
Source:IANS
