President Droupadi Murmu reaffirmed India’s dedication to climate justice for Fiji and other ocean states during her landmark visit earlier this week. In her address to the Fijian Parliament, President Murmu expressed India’s steadfast support for climate justice, stating, “As a powerful voice of the Global South, India will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice.” She commended Fiji for its significant contributions to global climate change initiatives and sustainable development.
During the visit, President Murmu highlighted the value India places on its development partnership with Fiji. A key development was the formal allocation of a site for the 100-bedded Super Specialty Hospital to be built in Suva, funded as a Government of India grant. This project was initially announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 2023 FIPIC Summit.
“We are confident that this critical infrastructure for public good will transform the delivery of quality and affordable healthcare, benefiting not only Fiji but the entire Pacific region,” she remarked. Another significant outcome of the visit included the land allocation by the Fijian Government for the construction of the Indian High Commission and Indian Cultural Centre in Suva, as stated by Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar during a media briefing.
“As India emerges strongly on the global stage, we stand ready to partner with Fiji in accordance with your priorities to create a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous nation,” he added. President Murmu also recalled Prime Minister Modi’s 2014 visit to Fiji, where he emphasized the shared values between the two nations and reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s development goals and enhancing collaboration across various sectors.
In a historic first, President Murmu was awarded Fiji’s highest civilian honor, the ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji,’ by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere during a ceremony at the State House, highlighting the deep ties between India and Fiji. Expressing her sincere gratitude for the honor, President Murmu noted that the award reflects the strong friendship shared between the two nations.
Additionally, President Murmu engaged with the Indian community in Fiji, praising the resilience of the ‘Girmitiya’ indentured laborers who arrived in Fiji 145 years ago, and recognized the diaspora as crucial partners in India’s progress. She underlined the historical and cultural connections shared between India and Fiji during her visit to the National War Memorial in Suva, paying respects to fallen soldiers, before laying floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School.
This three-nation visit, which also includes New Zealand and Timor-Leste, highlights India’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its relationships with Pacific Island countries.