His Excellency, the President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere officiated at the Na Wekaqu Noqu i Yau exhibition, an event to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture, and the launch of the Pacific Regional Culture Strategy 2022-2032 last night (12/07/22).
Addressing Pacific Island leaders and guests present, President Katonivere said that it was rather fitting that the milestone is commemorated at the leaders’ gathering as 50 years ago, the first gathering of the Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture took place right here in Suva in May 1972.
“As the Head of State, I wear many hats of responsibility, one of which is the Patron of the Fiji Arts Council, so I was greatly pleased to learn of the Fiji Arts Council’s forward-thinking and proposing the idea for a regional festival in 1965 and having co-hosted the very first festival in 1972,” said the President.
The Head of State added that the Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture helps lead the conversation on how culture and the creative industries can contribute to both social and economic development.
Fiji, like many countries in the Pacific, is progressing its work towards its National Cultural Policy; Cultural Statistics Framework; Fiji’s Heritage Bill, and Fiji’s Traditional and Ecological Knowledge Bill.
“As we engage in high-level decision making, it is crucial that we remember the importance of our shared community values and their contribution to sustainable development,” President Katonivere said.
“Tonight’s exhibition, Na Wekaqu Noqu i Yau, further reinforces the need to gather all groups in Oceania together to ensure a sustainable, secure, and successful future for coming generations.”
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