A delegation from Fiji’s Parliament, headed by Speaker Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, participated in Fiji Day celebrations at the Fiji House last night. The event saw attendance from the Fijian community in Geneva, including some Fijian rugby players who traveled with their families from France.
During the celebrations, the Speaker expressed gratitude to Luke Daunivalu, Fiji’s Ambassador to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office in Geneva, for organizing the event that brought together Fijian families and friends to celebrate this important day.
Minister for Fisheries and Forests, Alitia Bainivalu, who accompanied the parliamentary delegation, emphasized the importance of unity and progress for Fiji, encouraging the diaspora to set aside differences to foster a peaceful and harmonious society. He noted the recent introduction of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bill 2024 in Parliament, highlighting that the government will consider it further in upcoming readings.
Bainivalu also urged those present to focus on strengthening existing relationships and repairing any broken ones. The evening included a ‘talanoa’ session with the diaspora before the traditional cutting of the Fiji Day cake.
The delegation is presently in Geneva for the 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly, which commenced with registration activities yesterday. The Speaker is set to deliver a speech later in the week, while the Leader of the Opposition, Inia Seruiratu, will chair a meeting of the Small Islands Developing States on Monday in conjunction with the Assembly.