HE PRESIDENT RATU WILIAME KATONIVERE'S ADDRESS AT THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF SHERATON GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

Momo Na Tui Nadi, Ratu Vuniyani Navuniuci;
The Board of Directors for Fiji National Provident Fund,
The Board of Directors for Fijian Holdings;
The Board of Directors for Farleigh Group;
The Marriott International Area Team for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific; Members of the Media;
Distinguished Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen.

Miau Sa Bula Re and a very good evening to you all!

I am pleased to be back in Denarau after having officiated at the Fijian Tourism Expo only a few weeks ago. Thank you for having me.

At the outset, allow me to congratulate the Fiji National Provident Fund who are the proud owners of this beautifully upgraded resort. The vision and decision to purchase two iconic Denarau resorts in 2018, and the additional investment to refurbish these hotels is indeed admirable.

It is evident of the organisation’s commitment to build for the future of its members’ interests, your organisation’s vast impact on Fiji’s tourism industry, and your support of the livelihoods of ordinary Fijians, including our i-Taukei landowners.

I want to especially acknowledge the timing of this investment during the COVID-19 pandemic. When our borders were closed and our economy was contracting, tour commitment to this project created jobs, activity, and confidence in our tourism sector when Fiji needed it most, and we thank you. Now, we can recovery together, and add to the tens of thousands of guests, across generations, who stayed here for the past three decades.

The Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort continues to provide employment to about 600 employees. It offers innovative guest programmes, undertakes community engagements and contributes to sustainable efforts. Importantly, this fine establishment is 100% local owned, Well Done FNPF!

I also wish to congratulate, Mr. Sean Hunt, the Area Vice President, Australia, New Zealand and Pacific for Marriott International and Mr. Neeraj Chadha, the Multi Property Vice President Fiji & Samoa, Marriott International and their respective teams, on the back-to-back opening of three world-class Sheraton Resorts since March 16th; all operated by Marriott International across our magnificent Fiji Islands.

Earlier this month I opened the Fijian Tourism Expo, with great pride. To see the resilience of our people and the collaborative true Duavata Spirit of Team Fiji across all sectors is just remarkable. That resilient spirit has helped us navigate the pandemic. We have truly come out stronger –– this opening adds to the evidence.

Everyone here knows that tourism is one of the major drivers of Fiji’s economic growth and our largest source of foreign exchange earnings and employment. The livelihoods of thousands of Fijians rely on this vital industry, and it is rewarding to see our tourism workforce get back on its feet. As more international markets continue to open back up, we are certainly optimistic about the future.

Our national air carrier, Fiji Airways, connects us to the rest of the world. In a recent announcement, the additional Australian leg to service Adelaide from July 4th is exciting and presents more opportunities for us to extend the reach of our unique Bula Spirit.

The timeless beauty of Fiji is more attractive to visitors than ever – after two years of not being able to travel. They come to our shores to experience our pristine un-crowded beaches; world-class luxury accommodations; nature, flora and fauna; and adventure experiences; the warm tropical weather and friendly and generous hospitality - all of which the Marriott International Fiji Resorts offers its guests. I acknowledge the strong support of both the Fiji National Provident Fund and the Marriott International in helping rebuild Fiji’s Tourism industry and Fiji’s economy.

The Marriott International Fiji suite of properties also seeks to offer guests an understanding of the way of life in Fiji through its activities and experiences. It provides guests with a unique and exciting immersion into our local communities through a series of programs that support the locals, the environment, and our industries.

Tonight is a significant occasion as under the Marriott International Fiji flagship; we celebrate the reopening of the iconic Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. I want to also add that this isn’t all about tourism. As Mr Abraham mentioned, this resort is one of Fiji’s premier hosting venues for regional and international meetings.

As Fiji’s star continue to rise on the world stage, we look forward to making more history within these halls. The world continues to look to Fiji to lead on the most important issues affecting the planet –– and we do not shy away from that responsibility. With venues such as this, the world most certainly will be clamoring to come to Fiji.

Most, if not all of us have treasured memories of the old Sheraton Fiji Resort/Regent Fiji and I am sure we will share our experiences and personal recollections with guests and friends present here tonight. As we go down memory lane let us be equally appreciative of the accomplishments that have made this opening possible tonight.

Fiji is truly back in business! May the Almighty continue to bless us all and bless Fiji!

Vinaka Vakalevu!