A delegation from the Fijian Parliament, headed by Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, participated in the Fiji Day celebrations held at the Fiji House in Geneva last night.
The event was marked by the presence of the Fijian diaspora in Geneva, including several Fijian rugby players and their families who traveled from France to join the festivities.
The Speaker expressed gratitude to Luke Daunivalu, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Fiji to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, for organizing the gathering that brought together Fijian families and friends to celebrate this important occasion.
Alitia Bainivalu, the Minister for Fisheries and Forests, who was part of the delegation, shared remarks emphasizing the importance of unity and progress for Fiji, encouraging attendees to focus on living in peace and harmony by setting aside differences.
In her address, Bainivalu mentioned the recent introduction of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 in Parliament by the Prime Minister. The government will determine the timing for its second and third readings before it can be enacted.
Bainivalu stressed the significance of continuing to strengthen existing relationships and repairing fractured ones as a key message for those gathered to commemorate Fiji Day.
The event also featured a ‘talanoa’ session with the diaspora, concluding with the ceremonial cutting of a Fiji Day cake.
The delegation is currently in Geneva for the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, which began on the previous day with registration. The Speaker is scheduled to address the assembly later this week, while the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, will chair a meeting for Small Islands Developing States set to take place on Monday during the assembly’s activities.