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 welcomed the Fijian community in Geneva, including several Fijian rugby players and their families who traveled from France.
During the celebrations, the Speaker expressed gratitude to Luke Daunivalu, the Fijian Ambassador to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, for organizing the gathering that brought Fijian families and friends together to celebrate the occasion.
Alitia Bainivalu, Minister for Fisheries and Forests, who was also part of the delegation, spoke to the diaspora, emphasizing the importance of fostering a united and progressive Fiji where people can coexist peacefully, setting aside their differences.
She mentioned the recent tabling of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 in Parliament by the Prime Minister, noting that the government will determine the next readings before the bill is passed.
In her message to those gathered for Fiji Day, Bainivalu encouraged the community to strengthen current relationships and repair any that may be fractured.
A ‘talanoa’ session was held with the diaspora before the traditional Fiji Day cake was cut.
The delegation is in Geneva for the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, which began with registrations yesterday. The Speaker is set to deliver an address later this week, while Leader of the Opposition Inia Seruiratu will chair a meeting for Small Islands Developing States on Monday, in conjunction with the Assembly.