The Fiji Government accorded a traditional ceremony this morning to officially welcome the President of the Republic of Kiribati, His Excellency Taneti Maamau, for his State Visit to Fiji this week.
The ceremony was attended by senior members of the Government led by Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
Held at the Grand Pacific Hotel, the event was attended by cabinet ministers, members of Parliament, Permanent Secretaries, members od the diplomatic corps and invited guests.
It demonstrated the unique and diverse Fijian culture with profound respect extended to President Maamau and the people of Kiribati, reflecting on deep appreciation for the longstanding relations and cooperation cherished between the two nations.
President Maamau’s visit to Fiji underscores the significance of regional solidarity and the shared values the two nations embrace as the Pacific Vuvale.
The state visit marks a new chapter in Fiji-Kiribati relations and further deepens the foundation for future cooperation for the mutual benefit of the two nations and the broader Pacific family.
President Maamau expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Rabuka and the people of Fiji for the warm welcome and hospitality accorded to him. He reaffirmed Kiribati’s commitment to further strengthen the bilateral relations and development cooperation with Fiji by working closely to navigate through regional and multilateral issues that hold importance to both the nations and the Pacific family.
Further, President Maamau acknowledged that Fiji-Kiribati cooperation is of utmost importance and expressed optimism that relations will continue to grow from strength to strength.
Following the welcoming ceremony, President Maamau proceeded to the State House to meet with His Excellency the President, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu before engaging in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Rabuka.
The high-level discussions will explore new opportunities to elevate cooperation and address pressing global challenges that have implications for national undertakings. President Maamau’s visit to Fiji further builds on the positive momentum established during Prime Minister Rabuka’s visit to Kiribati in 2023, which led to the restoration of the unity within the Pacific Islands Forum family.
The President will return to Kiribati this Thursday upon completion of his state visit to Fiji.