Suva: President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, arrived in Suva this morning from Nadi, marking the commencement of her landmark State Visit to Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste. President Murmu, welcomed at the airport by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, received a ceremonial greeting in honor of the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to Fiji. Accompanying her on this significant visit are Minister of State Shri George Kurian, and Lok Sabha MPs Shri Saumitra Khan and Shri Jugal Kishore.
A traditional welcome ceremony was held in President Murmu’s honor, attended by Prime Minister Rabuka. Following the ceremony, President Murmu visited the State House, where she was warmly received by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere. The two leaders discussed deepening the India-Fiji relationship. President Murmu emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening relations and development partnerships with Pacific Island Countries (PICs), highlighting Fiji as a vital partner.
In a momentous occasion at the State House, President Katonivere conferred the highest civilian award of Fiji, the Companion of the Order of Fiji, upon President Murmu. She also reviewed the ‘Solarisation of Heads of State Residences’ project, an Indian initiative launched in February last year.
Addressing the Parliament of Fiji, President Murmu highlighted the commonalities between India and Fiji, including their vibrant democracies. She assured Fijian parliamentarians of India’s readiness to partner with Fiji, sharing India’s rich experience in fostering grassroots democracy. President Murmu lauded Fiji’s global contributions, particularly in addressing climate change and human conflicts, recognizing Fiji’s significant role in shaping global dialogues and advocating for ocean states.
The President praised Fiji’s cultural richness, respect for traditions, and multicultural environment, acknowledging the growing cooperation between India and Fiji across various sectors. She reiterated India’s commitment to standing with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice.
In a subsequent engagement, Prime Minister Rabuka held wide-ranging discussions with President Murmu, focusing on strengthening historic ties and partnerships. They presided over a ceremony for the allocation of project sites for the High Commission of India Chancery and Indian Cultural Centre Complex, and a 100-bed Super Speciality Hospital in Suva.
President Murmu also addressed the Indian diaspora community in Fiji, highlighting the inspirational resilience of the ‘Girmitiya’ indentured laborers who settled in Fiji 145 years ago. She acknowledged the overseas Indian community as crucial partners in building the India of the future.
Further engagements included a visit to the National War Memorial in Suva to honor martyred soldiers, and a visit to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School, where she paid tribute at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi.
The day concluded with a Reception hosted by President Katonivere at the State House, attended by eminent Fijians. President Murmu expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the Government and people of Fiji.
After completing her official engagements in Suva, President Murmu departed for Nadi, from where she will continue her State Visit to Auckland, New Zealand, tomorrow.
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