A delegation from the Fijian Parliament, headed by Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, participated in Fiji Day celebrations held at Fiji House last night.
The event was attended by members of the Fijian diaspora residing in Geneva, including several Fijian rugby players and their families who traveled from France.
The Speaker extended his gratitude to Luke Daunivalu, Fiji’s Ambassador 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 the occasion.
Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Alitia Bainivalu, who was also part of the parliamentary delegation, addressed the attendees, emphasizing the need for unity and progress in Fiji. He encouraged the diaspora to focus on living in peace and harmony while setting aside differences.
He noted that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 had recently been introduced in Parliament by the Prime Minister and was pending further readings and decisions by the government.
In his remarks, Bainivalu urged those present to strengthen existing relationships and repair any fractured ones, highlighting the significance of the Fiji Day celebrations.
The event also featured a ‘talanoa’ session with the diaspora before the traditional cutting of the Fiji Day cake.
The delegation is currently in Geneva for the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, which began yesterday with registration. The Speaker is scheduled to deliver a speech later this week, while Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu will chair a meeting focused on Small Islands Developing States on Monday, in conjunction with the Assembly activities.