The relationship between Fiji and India can be traced back to colonial heritage as around 60,000 Indians were brought to Fiji, under the indentured labour system to work on sugarcane plantations between 1879 to 1916.
This was highlighted by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere during the opening of the 12th World Hindi Conference at the Denarau Island Convention Centre in the presence of the Minister of State of External Affairs Shri V. Muraleedharan.
Ratu Wiliame acknowledged the efforts of the Government of India.
The theme of this year’s 12th World Hindi Conference is Hindi-Traditional Knowledge of Artificial Intelligence.
The President says this forum presents a unique opportunity to celebrate the enduring strength of the historical and special relationship that Fiji shares with India following the abolition of the indentured system in 1920 as some Indians chose to remain in Fiji while others returned to India.
He says those who stayed in Fiji now call Fiji their home and they have contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of modern Fiji where it comprises 62% of itaukei people, 34.2% of Fijian of Indian descent, and 33.8% of other races.
Ratu Wiliame says Fiji’s cultural diversity has presented us with the privilege to hear and learn many languages spoken in Fiji and experience many fascinating festivals and religious events over the years, listen to a variety of music, enjoy different culinary experiences, and witness unique cultural rites of passage accorded by different ethnic communities that make up Fiji.
Ratu Wiliame says when it comes to entertainment, Bollywood movies are favorite as Fijians love to watch Bollywood films accompanied by singalongs, laughter, and dance.
He says Hindi is one of the three official languages in Fiji and recently, Hindi and iTaukei language translation has been re-introduced into Parliament sessions as well.
The three-day program will discuss how artificial intelligence can be used to preserve advancing multilingualism, and support the diversity of languages.
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