King Charles III has expressed his disappointment over not being able to visit Fiji during his recent trip to the Pacific. The royal tour concluded with the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa in October.
During a recent meeting at Buckingham Palace where he received the Letters of Credence from Fiji’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Jovilisi Vulailai Suveinakama, King Charles III shared his regrets. He explained that his absence from Fiji was due to medical advice but expressed a strong desire to visit in the future.
“I am heartily saddened not to have come to Fiji but it was doctors’ advice. I was pleased to meet the Prime Minister at CHOGM in Samoa. Please send my regards to His Excellency the President. Fiji is very much in my heart,” the King remarked.
Furthermore, King Charles spoke about potential opportunities for enhancing economic collaboration between the UK and Fiji, particularly with regards to Fiji’s mahogany and sugar sectors. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of over 2,000 Fijian soldiers currently serving in the British Armed Forces, emphasizing their crucial role in strengthening the UK’s defense capabilities.
This interaction highlights not only the King’s appreciation for Fiji and its people but also opens doors for future collaborations in trade and defense, fostering a deeper relationship between the United Kingdom and Fiji.
Summary: King Charles III expressed regret for not visiting Fiji during his Pacific tour, citing medical advice as the reason. He remains committed to fostering economic collaboration, particularly in the mahogany and sugar industries, while acknowledging the contributions of Fijian soldiers in the UK Armed Forces. His expressions of interest indicate a promising future for UK-Fiji relations.
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