President Droupadi Murmu receives Fiji’s highest civilian award
President Droupadi Murmu received the Companion of the Order of Fiji, its highest civilian award, during her ongoing visit to the country.
Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the award on her, acknowledging the strong relationship between India and Fiji. During her visit, Murmu addressed the Fijian Parliament, reaffirming India’s willingness to collaborate with Fiji on projects that benefit both nations. She highlighted shared values such as democracy and human rights.
President Droupadi Murmu reached Suva, Fiji this morning from Nadi where she landed yesterday on the first leg of her State Visit to Fiji, New Zealand and Timor-Leste. She was received by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at the airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome.
A traditional welcome ceremony was organised for President Murmu in the presence of the Prime Minister of Fiji. Subsequently, the President visited the State House where she was warmly received by President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere of Fiji.
The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the India-Fiji relationship. The President said that India remains committed to strengthening its relations and development partnership with the Pacific Island Countries (PICs), among which Fiji is an important partner.
President Murmu also witnessed the progress of the ‘Solarisation of Heads of State Residences’ project, an Indian initiative which was inaugurated in February last year.
In the next engagement, the President addressed the Parliament of Fiji. She said that despite the vast difference in the size of the two countries, both India and Fiji have much in common, including vibrant democracies.