Fiji’s identity, culture and connection to its people go beyond its shores, with Fijians living overseas continuing to play an important role in the country’s future.
Speaking at the Fiji Day celebrations in Auckland, New Zealand, Minister for Policing and Communications Ioane Naivalurua highlighted that Fiji’s greatest strength has always been its people, their culture, identity and connection to one another.
Naivalurua says the 56th anniversary of independence is not only about remembering the past, but also about building the Fiji that future generations deserve.
He says Fiji’s cultures, languages, faith and traditions enrich the nation, while family, respect, service and care for one another continue to bind its people together.
Naivalurua says Fijians living in New Zealand remain an important part of Fiji’s national story, contributing through their work, businesses, remittances, investments and support for families back home.
He says their contribution goes beyond economics, as the way they live, serve and represent Fiji makes the country proud.
Addressing young Fijians born and raised in New Zealand, Naivalurua urged them to remain connected to their heritage, learn their language, understand their culture and faith, and know where their families come from.
He says young people can be proudly part of New Zealand and proudly connected to Fiji, stressing that the two identities do not compete, but enrich each other.
He says our geography may separate us, but our identity connects us.
On Fiji’s constitutional review, he says the process must be guided by dialogue, public participation, transparency, respect for the law and the national interest.
He says Fiji must also continue strengthening its economy, creating jobs and providing better opportunities for its people, while addressing challenges such as the cost of living and global uncertainty.
Naivalurua also warns that Fiji and the wider Pacific face changing security threats, including illicit drugs, transnational organised crime, cyber threats and maritime security risks.
He says national security cannot be delivered by Government alone and requires law enforcement, traditional and faith leaders, families and communities to work together.
He stresses that the response to illicit drugs must include effective law enforcement, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, while protecting young people.
Looking towards the future, the Minister stressed that the responsibility of Fijians is not only to remember the country they inherited, but to build the Fiji they will leave behind.
He says this must be a Fiji that is peaceful and secure, with strong democratic institutions, respect for the rule of law, a resilient economy and opportunities for young people.
He says that Fiji cannot be built by Government alone; it requires all of us, including Fijians living beyond our shores.
Naivalurua says Fijians must continue working towards a stronger, safer, more united and prosperous nation, wherever in the world they call home.
