During her recent historic visit to Fiji, President Droupadi Murmu reaffirmed India’s dedication to climate justice, not only for Fiji but also for other oceanic nations. She promised the Fijian Parliament of India’s unwavering support in the quest for climate justice.
India, as a prominent representative of the Global South, will continue to ally with Fiji and other ocean states in this cause, according to President Murmu. She commended Fiji for its considerable contributions to global climate change initiatives and sustainable development.
Additionally, President Murmu emphasized the significance of India’s development partnership with Fiji. A notable outcome of her visit was the formal allocation of land for the construction of a 100-bedded Super Speciality Hospital in Suva, financed by the Indian government. This project was initially announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 3rd FIPIC Summit in 2023.
Murmu expressed confidence that this vital healthcare infrastructure would transform the quality and affordability of healthcare services, benefiting not only Fiji but the entire Pacific region. Another key result from the visit was the allocation of land by the Fijian Government for the new premises of the Indian High Commission and the Indian Cultural Centre in Suva, as shared by Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar at a media briefing.
“As India strengthens its position on the global stage, we are prepared to collaborate with Fiji based on your priorities to create a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous nation,” Secretary Mazumdar stated. President Murmu urged for a unified effort to realize the full potential of their partnership for the mutual benefit of both countries.
She recalled Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Fiji in 2014, where he emphasized the core values that connect the two nations and reinforced India’s commitment to aiding Fiji’s development goals and closer cooperation across numerous sectors.
During this landmark visit, President Murmu became the first Indian head of state to be honored with Fiji’s highest civilian award, the ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji,’ bestowed upon her by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere. The prestigious ceremony at the State House reflected the deep ties between India and Fiji, and President Murmu expressed her gratitude for the honor, interpreting it as a sign of the strong friendship shared by the two nations.
Engaging with the vibrant Indian community in Fiji, President Murmu addressed a gathering and recognized the resilience of the ‘Girmitiya’ indentured laborers who arrived in Fiji 145 years ago. She highlighted the essential role of the Indian diaspora as partners in India’s developmental journey.
“We regard our overseas Indian community as key allies in the pursuit of building the India of our aspirations,” she remarked. She honored the historical and cultural links between India and Fiji, visited the National War Memorial in Suva to pay tribute to fallen soldiers, and laid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School.
President Murmu’s three-nation tour, which also includes stops in New Zealand and Timor-Leste, demonstrates India’s commitment to enhancing relations with Pacific Island countries.