President Droupadi Murmu reaffirmed India’s dedication to climate justice for Fiji and other ocean states during her significant visit this week. She expressed India’s steadfast support for climate justice while addressing the Fijian Parliament.
“As a strong voice of the Global South, India will continue to stand in solidarity with Fiji and other ocean states for climate justice,” she stated. President Murmu commended Fiji for its substantial contributions to global climate change initiatives and sustainable development efforts.
During her visit, she emphasized the importance of India’s development partnership with Fiji. A key achievement was the formal designation of the site for a 100-bedded Super Specialty Hospital in Suva, funded as a grant by the Government of India. This project was initially announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 3rd FIPIC Summit in 2023.
“We are confident that this essential infrastructure will transform healthcare services, not only in Fiji but across the Pacific region,” she added. Additionally, the Fijian Government allocated land for the construction of India’s High Commission premises and an Indian Cultural Centre in Suva, as noted by Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar during a special media briefing.
“As India rises on the global platform, we are eager to support Fiji according to its priorities to foster a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous nation,” he stated. “Let us collaborate to fully realize the potential of our partnership for the benefit of both our nations,” he remarked.
President Murmu referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Fiji in 2014, which highlighted the core values shared by both nations and reaffirmed India’s support for Fiji’s development goals.
Marking a historic occasion, President Murmu became the first Indian head of state to visit Fiji and was awarded the ‘Companion of the Order of Fiji,’ the country’s highest civilian honor, by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere. The award ceremony at the State House reflected the strong ties between India and Fiji.
Expressing her gratitude for the honor, President Murmu noted it as a symbol of the deep friendship shared by the two nations. “This award is a testament to the strong bond of friendship that exists between India and Fiji,” she remarked.
President Murmu also engaged with the Indian community in Fiji, addressing attendees and expressing her admiration for the ‘Girmitiya’ indentured laborers who arrived in Fiji 145 years ago. She highlighted the importance of the Indian diaspora as vital partners in India’s development journey.
“We consider our overseas Indian community worldwide as significant partners and stakeholders in our mission to build the India of our dreams,” she stated. Furthermore, she honored the historical and cultural ties between India and Fiji by visiting the National War Memorial in Suva to pay tribute to fallen soldiers and laying floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School.
Her three-nation tour, which includes stops in New Zealand and Timor-Leste, underscores India’s commitment to enhancing relations with Pacific Island countries.