108-year-old Gangamma from Sovi, Nadi is part of the 6 descendants of Girmitiyas presented with the 50th Anniversary medal for their contribution towards Fiji’s development and humanity at large.
They were presented with the medals by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere while hosting a reception for the President of the Republic of India, Droupadi Murmu, at the State House last night.
93-year-old Sovartha from Navau, Ba, 86-year-old Govindamma from Saru in Lautoka, 84-year-old Manorama from Vitogo in Lautoka, 83-year-old Hartal Singh from Vitogo in Lautoka and 83-year-old Kumaran from Natabua, Lautoka.
Ratu Wiliame says our nations share strong bilateral relations in the pursuit of issues of mutual interest, further strengthened by 75 years of diplomatic presence of the High Commission of India in Fiji.
He says Murmu’s State visit is a momentous opportunity for Fiji, given the historical links that exist between our two nations.
He says they acknowledge with profound gratitude the Government of India’s contribution to our nation-building in areas of mutual interest.
Ratu Wiliame says that India and Fiji share a cordial and enduring friendship anchored in mutual history, heritage and historical links.
In response, Murmu says Fiji is a special partner in the South Pacific adding that the gathering at the State House is a celebration of the longstanding and warm relations between India and Fiji.
She says her visit to the Fijian Parliament and substantial discussions underscore the vast potential for cooperation that exists across various domains.
Murmu says whether it is health and education, agriculture and digital partnership or clean energy and climate action, their partnership is multifaceted and the opportunities are immense.
She says their latest initiatives such as the 100-bedded super speciality hospital project and the digital ID pilot project herald a new direction in our partnership.
Murmu adds from the girmit era to the digital era, we have come a long way and together and they are not only fortifying bilateral relationships but also building a lasting legacy for future generations.
Present at the reception were Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, his wife Sulueti Rabuka, cabinet ministers, members of the diplomatic corps and invited guests.
Meanwhile, Murmu also participated in the wreath laying ceremony at the National War Memorial Grounds in Veiuto and visit Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School to pay respect to the statue of the late Mahatma Gandhi.
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