Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says the joy Fijians all find during Diwali - the Festival of Lights - is one of Fiji's greatest and most enduring blessings.
In his Diwali message, Bainimarama says may that spirit of shared humanity inspire Fijians not only today but through every day in the year ahead.
He says Diwali has always brought joy into the lives of every Fijian, but that joy has always shone especially bright in the eyes of children.
Bainimarama says for many decades, Fiji's national unity ran scarce and society was marred by division.
The Prime Minister says he can recall watching Fijian children of all backgrounds stand hand-in-hand in Diwali celebrations, share sweets, light candles, and dress up in traditional wear, united by happiness and friendship.
He says through their open embrace of their fellow Fijians' celebrations, our children gave us all a window into the powerful potential of a united Fiji, supplying the light that guided Fiji from those darker chapters of its history.
Bainimarama adds many years on, Fijians are finally living up to the ideals long exemplified by our youth.
He says the nation finally sits squarely on the side of light, knowledge, and justice in the great struggle over darkness, ignorance, and oppression.
Bainimarama says now unity spans across generations, ethnicities, religions, and provinces, as Fijians together share in the opportunity and prosperity of their growing nation.
