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In a historic accolade underscoring the deepening bilateral relations between India and Fiji, President Droupadi Murmu has been honored with Fiji’s highest civilian award. The prestigious award was conferred upon her during an official state visit, highlighting the robust and evolving partnership between the two nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that the honor, bestowed in a grand ceremony, reflects the mutual respect and admiration shared between India and Fiji. President Murmu, in her acceptance speech, expressed profound gratitude and emphasized the shared cultural and historical ties that have long united the peoples of India and Fiji. She reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering a strong and cooperative relationship with Fiji, emphasizing areas such as economic development, cultural exchange, and education.
President Murmu’s visit to Fiji marked a significant milestone in Indo-Fijian relations. During her trip, she engaged in high-level discussions with Fiji’s President Wiliame Katonivere and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. These talks covered a broad spectrum of bilateral interests, including trade, investment, climate change, and regional security.
The Indian President also visited several key cultural and historical sites in Fiji, underscoring the shared heritage between the two countries. A highlight of her visit was the inauguration of the ‘India-Fiji Friendship Park,’ symbolizing the enduring friendship and cooperation between the nations. Additionally, President Murmu announced several initiatives aimed at enhancing educational and cultural ties, including scholarships for Fijian students to study in India and the establishment of a new cultural center in Suva.
This visit and the conferred award signify a strengthened commitment to a strategic partnership, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in various fields. President Murmu’s engagement with the Fijian leadership and the populace at large has set a robust foundation for future collaboration, fostering goodwill and mutual development.
The conferral of Fiji’s highest civilian award to President Murmu is not just a personal honor but a testament to the enduring and ever-growing relationship between India and Fiji. It marks a new chapter in their diplomatic history, characterized by mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to progress.