Vanuatu's Prime Minister Sato Kilman paid a courtesy visit to his Fiji counterpart Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama at Government Buildings this morning.
Mr Kilman also offered traditional gifts, a custom performed by leaders and chiefs of Vanuatu when visiting another leader or chief in another country.
According to Vanuatu’s customs, the offering of these gifts will always take place outside and not inside any dwelling.
Before the offering of gifts, Mr Kilman and Commodore Bainimarama talked for several minutes inside Commodore Bainimarama’s office at Government Buildings.
Mr Kilman thanked the Fiji Government for the setting up of the Vanuatu High Commissions office in Suva.
“This means a lot for the Vanuatu Government and now our people and students in Fiji can have a place to go in times of need.” Mr Kilman said.
“We also grateful for the gesture and reception shown towards us during our stay in Fiji.
“Bainimarama reciprocated an said: “It was a privilege for the Fiji Government to host the Melanesian countries leaders”.
“Our Foreign Affairs Ministry is finalising details of the setting-up and building of Melanesian countries dedicated buildings in Suva,” he said.
Commodore Bainimarama said that this was agreed some time ago between MSG leaders but it was time his Government saw that it eventuated.
Kilman also said that there are 200 Vanuatu government-sponsored students studying in Fiji, excluding private students.
“The setting up of the embassy in Fiji will really make these students feel at home because they will a have a place to hang around,” he said.
Mr Kilman then presented gifts to Commodore Bainimarama outside Government Buildings
“We really appreciate this gesture and you are always welcomed in Fiji,” Commodore Bainimarama told his Vanuatu counterpart. “This is unexpected and it is really appreciated.”
Mr Kilman will visit the Fiji School of Medicine students at Pasifika Campus this afternoon before he pays another courtesy call University of the South Pacific Vice-Chancellor.
A meeting will follow after that with all Ni-Vanuatu students studying at USP and possible nearby tertiary institutions.
He is also schedule to visit Vanuatu descendants tomorrow living at a settlement outside Narere and will be guest for lunch at Muanikoso, hosted by Vanuatu descendants.
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