Over the weekend, significant cultural events were celebrated in Suva, Fiji, where President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere officiated in the presence of China’s Ambassador to Fiji Zhou Jian, members of the Fiji Government, Chinese community leaders, families, and friends.
The Fiji Chinese Association hosted grand festivities that included traditional feasting and cultural performances to commemorate both the National Day of China and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
In his address, Ratu Wiliame highlighted the importance of the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, which is deeply significant to the Chinese community both locally and globally.
Ambassador Zhou emphasized that the 15th day of the 8th lunar month is a time for family reunions, as this day features the moon at its fullest and brightest. A customary part of the celebration is for families to gather and enjoy moon cakes together.
Jenny Seeto, President of the Chinese Association of Fiji, also spoke about the importance of China’s National Day. She mentioned that while the official date for the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China is October 1, the close timing of the Mid-Autumn Festival allows the local community to celebrate both occasions together.
Seeto expressed pride in the strong and lasting relationship between Fiji and China, noting the recent successful visit of Fiji’s Prime Minister to China. She reflected on the significant journey China has experienced since its early days, highlighting the remarkable leadership that contributed to the country’s current global status.
In her remarks, she shared her personal experience of witnessing China’s transformation over the past four decades, including developments in cities and rural areas.
Both Ratu Wiliame and Seeto acknowledged the vital contributions of the Chinese community to Fiji’s development and the strengthening of bilateral relations between Fiji and China.