Chinese community gather to celebrate 170 years of their presence in Fiji and 50 years of diplomatic ties with China

Hundreds came together to remember the contributions of the Chinese community since their arrival in Fiji 170 years ago and to also commemorate the 50th anniversary of China–Fiji diplomatic relations.

People marched from the Suva Flea Market to the Sukuna Park to the beat of Chinese drums and escorted by dancing dragons.

While speaking at Ratu Sukuna Park, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says over the years, new generations of Chinese have arrived, men and women from many professions and sectors, all contributing to the life and progress of our nation.

Rabuka says the courage of those first settlers who left behind their familiar environment to build a new life in colonial Fiji remains deeply inspiring.

He adds they brought with them enduring values, hard work, self-resilience, integrity, loyalty, harmony, and respect for family.

The Prime Minister says seven generations later, those same values continue to shine within Fiji’s Chinese community and their contributions to education, health, business, professional fields, politics, culture, and infrastructure have helped shape the Fiji we now know.

Rabuka says the celebration reflected the rich diversity within the Chinese community in Fiji, as well as the shared pride and unity that bind them in celebrating their enduring heritage and contribution to our nation.

Reflecting on the diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister says Fiji’s partnership with the People’s Republic of China has brought tangible benefits across many sectors - from agriculture, fisheries, and forestry to infrastructure, manufacturing, mining, medicine, and public health.

He adds looking ahead, he is confident that this partnership will continue to grow stronger as they work together to confront the great challenges of our time - from climate change and disaster resilience to poverty alleviation and sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, former Yat Sen Primary School head teacher, Nanise Bale Kamikamica says exposing children to different cultural values from an early age helps build understanding and respect among communities.

Kamikamica says her daughter was a student of Yet Sen, and now her granddaughter is attending kindergarten at the same institution.

The mother of the Vodafone Fiji Bati captain adds that as we live in a multi-ethnic country, it is important to understand each other’s cultures and learn to live in harmony.