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Suva: President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday was honoured with the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the nation’s most prestigious civilian accolade, as she praised the relationship between the two countries and declared India’s readiness to collaborate with Fiji towards forging a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous nation.
“President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji bestowed the Companion of the Order of Fiji on President Droupadi Murmu. This represents Fiji’s highest civilian honour,” stated the President’s Office in a post on X.
During her two-day sojourn in Fiji, Murmu characterized the award as “a testament to the profound bonds of friendship” shared by India and Fiji, marking the inaugural visit of an Indian head of state to the island nation.
President Murmu also took the podium at the Fijian Parliament.
“As India asserts itself on the international stage, we are poised to align with Fiji, by your objectives, to cultivate a stronger, more resilient, and affluent nation. Let’s join forces to fully realize the potential of our partnership for the reciprocal benefit of our nation’s citizens,” she articulated in her parliamentary address.
She observed that despite their size disparity, India and Fiji share several commonalities, including dynamic democracies. She reminisced about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address in the same chamber nearly a decade prior, highlighting fundamental values that bind India and Fiji together.
“These values encompass ‘our democracy, the diversity within our societies, our belief in the equality of all humans, and our dedication to the freedom, dignity, and rights of each individual.’ These enduring values will continue to steer our course forward,” she remarked.
She expressed confidence that the newly announced initiatives, including the establishment of the Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, would address the priority needs of the Fijian populace and the broader Pacific region.
Previously, President Murmu received a warm welcome from President Katonivere at the State House, where they explored ways to strengthen bilateral relations.
While at the State House, President Murmu observed the advancements in the ‘Solarisation of Heads of State Residences’ project, an Indian endeavour launched in February of the previous year, as reported by her office on X.
Following her visit to Fiji, President Murmu is set to travel to New Zealand and Timor-Leste. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi states that her six-day tour across three nations is designed to advance India’s Act East Policy.
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