Suva: Indian President Droupadi Murmu was awarded Fiji’s highest civilian honor, the Companion of the Order of Fiji, during her inaugural visit to the Pacific island nation. The prestigious accolade was presented by Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere.
President Murmu arrived in Suva from Nadi on the first leg of her State Visit, which also includes New Zealand and Timor-Leste. She was warmly received at the airport by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who extended a ceremonial welcome.
This marks the first visit by an Indian Head of State to Fiji. Accompanying President Murmu are Minister of State George Kurian and Lok Sabha MPs Saumitra Khan and Jugal Kishore. A traditional welcome ceremony was held in her honor, followed by a visit to the State House where President Katonivere conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji upon her.
During their meeting, President Murmu and President Katonivere discussed strategies to enhance the India-Fiji relationship. Murmu reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Pacific Island Countries, highlighting Fiji’s significant role in global climate action and conflict resolution.
At the State House, President Murmu also observed progress on the ‘Solarisation of Heads of State Residences’ project, an initiative launched by India in February 2023.
Addressing the Fijian Parliament, President Murmu emphasised the shared values between India and Fiji, particularly their vibrant democracies. She praised Fiji’s contributions to global challenges such as climate change and human conflict, noting the country’s growing international influence.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka later met with President Murmu for comprehensive discussions on reinforcing historical ties and advancing cooperation. They agreed to focus on climate resilience and the development of clean and renewable energy.
During the visit, President Murmu and Prime Minister Rabuka oversaw the allocation of project sites for the High Commission of India Chancery and Indian Cultural Centre Complex, as well as a 100-bed Super Speciality Hospital in Suva.
President Murmu also engaged with the Indian diaspora, celebrating the legacy of ‘Girmitiya’ indentured laborers and expressing appreciation for their contributions. She visited the National War Memorial in Suva to honor fallen soldiers and paid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School.
The day concluded with a reception hosted by President Katonivere at the State House, attended by prominent Fijians. Expressing her gratitude, President Murmu thanked her hosts and the people of Fiji for their warm hospitality.
Following her successful engagements in Suva, President Murmu will depart for Auckland, New Zealand, tomorrow.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated President Droupadi Murmu on being bestowed the highest civilian award of Fiji, Companion of the Order of Fiji. The Prime Minister said, this is a moment of immense pride and joy for every Indian.
Modi said, this award is also a recognition of President Murmu’s leadership as well as the historic people-to-people connection between the both countries.
