A delegation from the Fijian Parliament, headed by Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, participated in the Fiji Day celebrations at the Fiji House last night.
The event was attended by members of the Fijian diaspora residing in Geneva, as well as several Fijian rugby players and their families who traveled from France to join the festivities.
The Speaker expressed his gratitude to Luke Daunivalu, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Fiji to Switzerland and Permanent Representative of Fiji to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva, for organizing the gathering that allowed Fijian families and friends to come together to honor this special occasion.
Alitia Bainivalu, Minister for Fisheries and Forests and part of the parliamentary delegation, shared remarks emphasizing the importance of unity and progress in Fiji, encouraging attendees to live in peace and harmony while setting aside differences.
She referenced the recent tabling of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 in Parliament by the Prime Minister, stating that the government will decide on its subsequent readings before it is passed. Bainivalu conveyed a message for the gathering to focus on fostering existing relationships and repairing any fractured ones.
A ‘talanoa’ session was held with the diaspora before the cutting of the Fiji Day cake.
The delegation is in Geneva for the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, which began with registrations yesterday. The Speaker is expected to deliver an address later this week, and the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, will chair a meeting of the Small Islands Developing States scheduled for Monday during the Assembly.