Suva/New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu, who is on a state visit to Fiji, has been conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest civilian award of the South Pacific Ocean island country.
President Murmu was conferred the award by Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere at the State House, Suva, on Monday.
President Murmu said the honour is a reflection of the deep ties of friendship between India and Fiji.
President Murmu is the first President of India to visit Fiji.
She also addressed the Fijian Parliament and interacted with the MPs.
In her address, President Murmu highlighted how shared values of democracy, pluralism and diversity bring the two countries closer together.
“Despite the vast difference in our size, both India and Fiji have much in common, including our vibrant democracies. Almost 10 years ago, speaking in this same Hall, Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi had underlined some basic values that unite India and Fiji,” she said in her address, according to posts on X by the President’s Office.
“These include, “our democracy, the diversity of our societies, our creed that all human beings are equal, and our commitment to the liberty, dignity and rights of every individual”. These shared values are eternal, and shall continue to guide us ahead
“In my short time here, I can see that the rest of the world has so much to learn from 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. No wonder, Fiji is the place where rest of the world comes to find its happiness.
“I am confident that the newly announced projects, including the Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital to be established in Suva, would help to meet the priority needs of the people of Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
“As a powerful voice of the Global South, India will keep pushing the developed countries for both climate finance and climate technology. We will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice.
“As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with Fiji, according to your priorities, to build a stronger, resilient, and more prosperous nation. Let us come together to unlock the full potential in our partnership for the mutual benefit of people of both our beloved countries,” she said.
Earlier, on her arrival in Suva, President Murmu was received at the airport by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and accorded a ceremonial welcome.
The President’s House and MEA spokesperson in posts on X said:
“An important milestone in India-Fiji partnership!
President Droupadi Murmu @rashtrapatibhvn arrived in Suva on the first-ever visit by the President of India to Fiji.
“In a special gesture, PM @slrabuka of Fiji received President Murmu at the Nausori Airport with full state honors.
“President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Suva, Fiji on the first leg of her three nation visit. She was
received by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji at the airport and accorded ceremonial welcome.
“She is the first Indian President to visit Fiji.
“After an affectionate welcome by children on her way from airport, a traditional welcome ceremony was organised in honour of President Droupadi Murmu in presence of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji.”
