Expressing her gratitude for the award, the President hailed the ties between the two countries and said India stands ready to partner with Fiji to build a stronger, resilient, and more prosperous nation.
“President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji upon President Droupadi Murmu.This is the highest civilian award of Fiji. President Murmu said that this honour is a reflection of the deep ties of friendship between India and Fiji,” President’s office said in a tweet.
The President highlighted the shared values that unite India and Fiji, including their vibrant democracies, diverse societies, belief in human equality, and commitment to individual rights and dignity. She praised the Fijian way of life, characterized by respect for traditions and customs, and an open, multicultural environment, which she believes the world can learn from in an increasingly conflict-ridden world.
President Murmu expressed confidence in the newly announced projects, such as the Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, which will cater to the priority needs of the Fijian people and the broader Pacific region. She also acknowledged the contributions of the “Girmitiyas” and their descendants, who arrived in Fiji as indentured workers more than 145 years ago and have since been embraced by the country, contributing significantly to the development of their new homeland.
“More than 145 years ago, destiny bound our two countries together when ‘Indentured’ workers first arrived on the shores of Fiji Islands from India,” PTI quoted her saying.
“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.”
During her visit, President Murmu met with President Katonivere at State House, where they discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties. She also met with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, and they agreed to build upon the historic ties and enhance the partnership between the two countries.
“President Droupadi Murmu was warmly received by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji at State House, Suva. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. At State House, President Droupadi Murmu also witnessed the progress of the ‘Solarization of Heads of State Residences’ project, an Indian initiative which was inaugurated in February last year,” the office said in a tweet.
Addressing the Indian community in Fiji, President Murmu thanked them for preserving their culture, language, tradition, and lifestyle, despite being away from India for 145 years. She commended their hard work, discipline, and values, which have contributed to their success in all areas of life. She also acknowledged the Indian diaspora’s role as a living bridge in strengthening the friendship between the two countries and thanked the Fijian government for recognizing the contributions of the Girmits and their descendants during the recently held “Girmit Day” celebrations.
President Murmu highlighted the initiatives launched by the Government of India, such as the Overseas Citizen of India Card (OCI Card) and the “Know India Programme,” aimed at deepening ties with the Indian diaspora and connecting the younger generation of migrant families with their Indian roots.
From Fiji, President Murmu will travel to New Zealand and Timor-Leste as part of her six-day, three-nation visit, which aims to further India’s Act East Policy.