The Mid-Autumn Festival in Fiji highlights the country’s diversity and its respect for China. Celebrated by the Chinese community, the festival, also known as the Moon Festival, involved expressions of gratitude and shared joy and prosperity.
During the celebrations in Suva, Fiji’s President Wiliame Kotonivere expressed his appreciation for the contributions of the Chinese farming community. He acknowledged their vital role in providing local food crops, which ensure families have a variety of locally grown vegetables available. “I also acknowledge the Chinese farming community for their contribution in furthering the development of our domestic agricultural exports,” Mr. Kotonivere stated.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, eagerly anticipated by the Chinese community both in Fiji and abroad, commemorates the harvest season and is a time for family gatherings, thanksgiving, and celebrating joy and prosperity. Mr. Kotonivere emphasized that the Moon Festival embodies the values of family, unity, and love for one another, reminding everyone of the importance of these principles in their lives and community.
He described the festival’s spirit as one of harmony and completeness, which mirrors the unity and strength found in Fiji’s diverse society. The Chinese community has played an essential role in enriching the country’s multicultural heritage and contributing to its development. “Your traditions, values, and hard work have helped shape Fiji into the vibrant and inclusive nation it is today,” he noted.
Kotonivere highlighted Fiji’s unparalleled natural beauty, including its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests, and majestic mountains, and urged everyone to appreciate and preserve the natural environment for future generations.
He also stressed the importance of unity and mutual respect, particularly in current times, advocating for standing together to support one another and celebrating the diversity that strengthens Fiji. The Chinese community in Fiji is also looking forward to celebrating China’s National Day, which marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.