NANISE NEIMILA
“They are us.” “Those few words helped unite a nation and inspire the world. And behind the words stood a remarkable story of resilience, compassion and action that, I believe, set a new benchmark for how any leader can help a wounded nation heal.”
These were the comments made by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while hosting his counter-part New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern at the welcoming dinner during her visit to Fiji last week.
Prime Minister Bainimarama thanked the people of New Zealand for their support towards the terror in Christchurch last year and said with a sizable diaspora community in Christchurch “needed that healing comfort here on the ground as we learned that three Fijians whom were among the fallen”.
“In a moment clouded by dark-ness, New Zealand harnessed the power of national unity allowing the best of humankind to shine through.
Those three words –– “They Are Us” –– embody an ideal which I have pursued for the Fijian people since my first day as Prime Minister. Jacinda sees what I see: That being a Fijian or being a New Zealander is not about who you are, what you look like, or what religion you follow; it is about the love you hold in your heart –– love for your country, and love for your fellow citizens.”
“When we tap into the fabric of nationhood that binds our people together, there is no challenge we cannot overcome.”
Prime Minister Bainimarama acknowledged the PM Ardern’s unwavering support towards the Pacific Island Countries’ plea in combating climate change at the international stage.
“The respect she has shown for our way of life, and her sincere empathy for our suffering through a changing climate, will not be for-gotten.”
“In my eyes, the humility, and the subtle strength, shown by the Prime Minister at PIF (Pacific Is-lands Forum) –– despite representing the second-largest nation in the room –– has proven to be one of two defining moments in Jacinda’s time in office to date.”