The German Embassy in Suva celebrated its first anniversary in Fiji last night, having opened just a year ago.
German Ambassador to Fiji, Dr. Andreas Prothmann, noted that Fiji and Germany share common interests, highlighting that their relationship is just beginning to flourish.
The event welcomed hundreds, including government officials, diplomats, and members of the public, to commemorate German Unity Day, which also honored the reunification of Germany after years of division.
“German reunification on October 3rd, 1990, stands as one of the happiest moments in Germany’s history after a peaceful revolution in East Germany led to the fall of the Berlin Wall. We are fortunate to have lived in a united country for more than a generation now,” said Ambassador Dr. Prothmann.
The establishment of the German Embassy in Suva last year has significantly strengthened diplomatic relations, opening avenues for collaboration in areas such as climate action, trade, and development.
“We’re proud to be part of the diplomatic community in the Pacific. We are a member of Team Europe in Suva, working closely with our colleagues from France, Spain, and the UK, and engaging with the Pacific Island Forum and other regional organizations. Germany maintains excellent relations with Fiji and the Pacific, sharing values and interests aligned with Germany and Europe in the region. We stand for a rules-based international order, as seen in our support for UN resolutions against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine,” the Ambassador stated.
This year’s event marked the second edition of the German Unity Day celebrations in Suva, focusing on showcasing Germany’s 16 diverse federal states. The theme emphasized the unique histories, cultures, and traditions of each region, offering Fijians a glimpse into Germany’s rich cultural heritage.