The Prince of Wales says throughout all these years Fiji and her people have held a special place in his heart and he had dearly hoped to be here this year to join in celebrating Fiji’s 50th anniversary of independence.
In a video message to the Fijian people, Prince Charles says he is profoundly saddened that this dreadful global pandemic has prevented him from being in Fiji in person.
He says he is with the Fijian people in spirit.
Prince Charles says he recalls with immense fondness his visit to Suva in 1970 when he represented the Queen at Fiji’s independence ceremony.
He says over those past five decades he has been fortunate enough to have visited Fiji on a number of subsequent occasions.
Prince Charles says this anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate all that the Republic of Fiji has achieved over the last 50 years in social and economic development, in ensuring access to education and health services and in preserving culture, traditions and precious ecosystems.
He says on this auspicious occasion, he also wants to pay tribute to the thousands of Fijian men and women who make such a vital contribution to the British Armed Forces – many of whom he had the great pleasure of meeting over the years.
Prince Charles says as we honour and celebrate the achievements of Fiji over the past 50 years, we can also look forward to a future of continued partnership.
He says the United Kingdom and Fiji share a truly special bond as fellow members of the Commonwealth and as friends and beneficiaries of a common heritage.
Prince Charles says he has every confidence that we shall remain trusted partners over the years ahead.
He says his family will continue to champion this bond in whatever way they can.
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