President Droupadi Murmu to Undertake Historic State Visit to Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste

New Delhi:  The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, is set to embark on a significant State Visit to Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste from August 5 to 10, 2024. This visit, at the invitation of the respective heads of state, marks a pivotal moment in India’s diplomatic relations with these nations and underscores India’s commitment to strengthening ties in the Asia-Pacific region.

Historic Visit to Fiji

President Murmu’s visit to Fiji on August 5-6, 2024, is particularly noteworthy as it is the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to the island nation. Invited by H.E. Mr. Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, President of Fiji, President Murmu will engage in bilateral discussions with both President Katonivere and Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Sitiveni Rabuka. The agenda includes a historic address to the Fijian Parliament and an interaction with the Indian diaspora in Fiji. This visit reflects India’s ongoing commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation with Fiji.

Strengthening Ties with New Zealand

Following her visit to Fiji, President Murmu will travel to New Zealand from August 7-9, 2024. This leg of the tour is at the invitation of H.E. Rt. Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, Governor General of New Zealand. In New Zealand, President Murmu will hold bilateral meetings with Governor General Kiro and Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Christopher Luxon. She is also scheduled to address an education conference, highlighting the importance of educational exchange and collaboration. Additionally, President Murmu will meet with the Indian community and friends of India, further fostering cultural and people-to-people ties.

Pioneering Visit to Timor-Leste

Concluding her State Visit, President Murmu will visit the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste on August 10, 2024. This visit, at the invitation of President H.E. Mr. José Ramos-Horta, will be the first-ever by an Indian Head of State to Timor-Leste. President Murmu will engage in bilateral discussions with President Ramos-Horta and is also expected to meet with Prime Minister H.E. Mr. Kay Rala “Xanana” Gusmão. The visit will include interactions with members of the Indian community, highlighting India’s commitment to fostering stronger bilateral relations with Timor-Leste.

A Significant Diplomatic Initiative

This State Visit is a testament to the importance India places on its bilateral relationships with Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste. It aligns with India’s Act East Policy, initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ten years ago at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014. The policy aims to strengthen India’s strategic, economic, and cultural connections with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. President Murmu’s visit is expected to further enhance diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with these countries, reflecting India’s growing engagement in the region.

The visit underscores India’s commitment to fostering strong and enduring partnerships with nations across the globe, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, and highlights the shared values and interests that bind these countries together.