The German Embassy in Suva celebrated its first anniversary in Fiji last night, having established the embassy just a year ago.
German Ambassador to Fiji, Dr. Andreas Prothmann, emphasized the shared interests between Fiji and Germany, noting that their relationship is just beginning.
The celebration, which coincided with German Unity Day—a commemoration of the country’s reunification after years of division—saw hundreds of attendees, including government officials, diplomats, and local citizens.
Dr. Prothmann reflected on German reunification on October 3, 1990, describing it as one of the happiest moments in Germany’s history following the peaceful revolution in East Germany, which led to the fall of the Berlin Wall. He expressed gratitude for living in a united Germany for over a generation.
The opening of the German Embassy in Suva last year has strengthened diplomatic ties between Germany and Fiji, facilitating enhanced collaboration in areas such as climate action, trade, and development.
“We’re pleased to be part of the diplomatic community in the Pacific. We proudly join Team Europe in Suva alongside our colleagues from France, Spain, and the UK, and we actively engage with the Pacific Islands Forum and other regional organizations. Germany enjoys excellent relations with Fiji and the Pacific. We align with shared values and interests of Germany and Europe in the Pacific, supporting the global rule-based order, as demonstrated by our votes on UN resolutions opposing Russia’s aggression in Ukraine,” the Ambassador stated.
This year’s German Unity Day celebrations marked the second edition in Suva, focusing on the introduction of Germany’s 16 diverse federal states.
The theme showcased the unique history, culture, and traditions of each region, providing Fijians an opportunity to explore the rich cultural diversity of Germany.