On August 6, President Droupadi Murmu was awarded the highest civilian honor of Fiji, Companion of the Order of Fiji; she mentioned that Indian relations with Fiji were strong and also said that India is ready to assist Fiji build a better nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in global leadership was also given this highest civilian award in 2023.
“Companion of the Order of Fiji was conferred upon President Droupadi Murmu by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji. This is the highest civilian award of Fiji,” informed X.
While visiting Fiji for two days, Ms. Murmu referred to this award as “a reflection of deep friendship” between India and Fiji. The head-of-state visit to the archipelago nation thus marks its maiden appearance by an Indian.
President Murmu also addressed Fijian Parliament.
“As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with you in building a more strong, resilient and prosperous nation as per your priorities for development that would have mutual benefit for our peoples,” she said while addressing Parliament.
She noted that despite being vastly different in size, both countries have many things in common – including vibrant democracies. She recalled that nearly a decade ago Prime Minister Narendra Modi had observed some fundamental values uniting India and Fiji from this same Hall.
“These include our democracy, our societies which are diverse in nature; our belief that all human beings are equal; and our commitment towards liberty, dignity and rights for every individual. These shared values are eternal, and shall continue to guide us ahead,” she stated.
“There is so much that I learned about how other parts of this world should be from my short time in Fiji. The gentle Fijian way of life, the deep-rooted respect for traditions and customs, an open and multicultural environment, makes Fiji so special in an increasingly conflict-ridden world. Hence no wonder, the rest of the world comes to Fiji to find its happiness,” she said.
She also expressed confidence that some of these projects including a Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital to be established in Suva would help cater for priority health needs of our people in Fiji as well as those in the wider Pacific region.
Earlier on in her visit President Murmu was warmly received by President Katonivere at State House where they discussed ways to further deepen bilateral ties.
“At State House, President Droupadi Murmu also witnessed the progress of the ‘Solarisation of Heads of State Residences’ project, an Indian initiative which was inaugurated in February last year,” her office said in a post on X.
Ms. Murmu will then leave for New Zealand and Timor-Leste from here. In terms of India’s Act East Policy this six-day three-nation tour is meant to take it forward stated Ministry Of External Affairs located in New Delhi.
