The Mid-Autumn Festival celebration in Fiji highlights the nation’s diversity and its respect for Chinese culture. Known as the Moon Festival, this occasion was marked by the local Chinese community with expressions of gratitude, joy, and prosperity.
During the festivities in Suva, Fiji’s President Wiliame Kotonivere expressed his appreciation for the contributions of the Chinese farming community. He noted the essential role they have played in cultivating food crops that provide families with locally grown vegetables. Kotonivere acknowledged their efforts in enhancing the development of Fiji’s agricultural exports as well.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, eagerly anticipated by the Chinese community both in Fiji and internationally, honors the harvest season and is a time for family gatherings and gratitude. Kotonivere pointed out that the festival embodies important values such as family, unity, and love, emphasizing their significance within the community.
“Our celebrations reflect harmony and wholeness and showcase the strength of Fiji’s diverse society,” he stated. The Chinese community has been a vital part of Fiji’s multicultural landscape, significantly contributing to the country’s cultural richness. He praised their hard work and traditions that have shaped Fiji into a vibrant and inclusive nation.
Kotonivere further celebrated Fiji’s stunning natural landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush rainforests, as a picturesque backdrop for such festivities. He encouraged reflection on the importance of the environment and commitment to its preservation for future generations.
In his address, he highlighted the necessity of unity and mutual respect, urging everyone to support each other and celebrate the diversity that strengthens Fiji. The Chinese community in Fiji is also looking forward to celebrating China’s National Day, which commemorates the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.