Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has confirmed that in the first four months of this year, $448.5 million was remitted into the country by Fijians living overseas.
While speaking during Fiji Day celebrations at Liverpool’s Woodward Park in south-western Sydney, Rabuka thanked the diaspora for their contribution towards Fiji’s economy.
Rabuka says they have lifted the lives of so many people back home.
The annual celebration brought together Fijians from all walks of life, proudly waving the Fiji flag, and sharing the warmth and unity that define our people.
The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation to the Fijian community for their continued love and contribution to the country they still call home.
He says even though they are far from Fiji, their hearts remain close. Rabuka says through their remittances, their families, and their prayers, they continue to strengthen our nation.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to encourage Fijians in Australia to continue being good citizens and role models in their communities, telling them to be proud of who they are.
He told the diaspora to uphold the values that make us Fijians and that is respect, humility, and compassion.
The Prime Minister says wherever you are, live in a way that makes others see the best of Fiji in you.
He also expressed Fiji’s gratitude to the Government and people of Australia for their friendship and support under the Vuvale Partnership, saying Australia has been a true friend to Fiji.
Rabuka says our Vuvale Partnership shows the strength of our shared values and the deep connection between our peoples.
Sharing the significance of Fiji’s national day, the Prime Minister reminded everyone that independence was both a gift and a responsibility.
He says Fiji Day is a time to celebrate how far we have come, and to remind ourselves of the unity and faith that carried us through.
Rabuka says let’s continue to build a future filled with hope, peace, and love for one another and progress for all.
The Sydney celebration featured traditional dances, cultural performances, food stalls, amusement rides and a rugby tournament that brought the crowd to life.
Fijians from across Australia also took advantage of the services offered by the Fiji Government roadshow team, which included representatives from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Ministry of Immigration, the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and other relevant agencies.
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