In a grand ceremony at the Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH) on the morning of 6th August 2024, the President of India Droupadi Murmu, was warmly welcomed with a traditional Fijian ceremony.
This event marked the beginning of her three-day state visit to Fiji, a significant occasion aimed at strengthening the ties between the Republic of Fiji and the Republic of India.
President Murmu’s state visits to Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste represent a milestone in India’s diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with these nations.
This is President Murmu’s first visit to Fiji, and her presence highlights the growing relationship between the two nations.
In her address following the ceremony, President Murmu expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the people and Government of Fiji for their warm hospitality and beautiful welcome.
President Murmu remarked that the warm reception by Fijian people made her feel as if she were at home in India.
“I bring to you the greetings of 1.4 billion of your brothers and sisters in the largest democracy of the world, India.”
Accompanying President Murmu at the welcome ceremony was the Prime Minister of Fiji Sitiveni Rabuka. Following the ceremony, President Murmu paid a courtesy call to the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere.
President Murmu’s visits are expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation and mutual understanding, enhancing India’s engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has emphasised that this visit underscores India’s dedication to enhancing bilateral ties with Fiji.
The MEA noted that these visits reflect India’s strong focus on the Act East Policy, announced by Prime Minister Modi at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014.
The visits aim to enhance political and economic cooperation, promote mutual interests, and foster regional stability. India’s robust economy and significant consumer base make it an attractive partner for bilateral trade, which is a key focus of these diplomatic engagements.
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