President Droupadi Murmu Receives Fiji’s Highest Civilian Honour

Suva: President Droupadi Murmu was on Tuesday conferred the Companion of the Order of Fiji, the highest civilian honour in Fiji, during her official visit.

President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere conferred the award, emphasizing the strong ties between India and Fiji.

Murmu, on a two-day visit to Fiji, highlighted the friendship between the two nations, expressing India’s readiness to collaborate with Fiji for mutual growth and prosperity. This visit marks the first by an Indian head of state to the island nation.

Addressing the Fijian Parliament, President Murmu outlined India’s commitment to supporting Fiji’s priorities. “As India emerges on the global stage, we are ready to partner with Fiji to build a stronger, resilient, and prosperous nation,” she stated.

Despite their differences in size, Murmu noted the shared democratic values and societal diversity between India and Fiji. She recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the Fijian Parliament a decade ago, highlighting common values like democracy, equality, and individual rights.

She expressed confidence that new initiatives, such as the Super Specialty Cardiology Hospital in Suva, would meet the region’s healthcare needs.

Earlier, President Murmu met with President Katonivere at State House to discuss enhancing bilateral ties. She also reviewed the progress of the ‘Solarisation of Heads of State Residences’ project, an Indian initiative launched last year.

Following her Fiji visit, President Murmu will travel to New Zealand and Timor-Leste as part of a six-day tour to advance India’s Act East Policy, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.