President Droupadi Murmu met Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere at the State House in Suva. The main agenda of the meeting was to strengthen the India-Fiji bilateral relationship. A traditional ceremonial welcome was extended to President Murmu, who is on a state visit to Fiji. The President of India was received at the airport by Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and given a ceremonial reception.
India’s Act East Policy
The official meeting aims to enhance the historic partnership between the two nations and promote India’s Act East Policy. This visit was arranged based on an invitation from Fiji’s President Katonivere. President Murmu is on a three-day visit and is scheduled to travel to New Zealand and Timor-Leste afterward. This is the first time that an Indian head of state has visited Fiji. She is also expected to meet with the Indian diaspora and address the Parliament in Fiji.
President Murmu’s Second Trip to New Zealand
She will be in New Zealand from August 7 to 8 as part of the second leg of her official tour. President Murmu will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon, address the Indian community, and attend an education conference. This visit is on the invitation of Governor-General Cindy Kiro.
President Murmu’s Third Visit to Timor-Leste
On August 10, President Murmu will head to Timor-Leste for the final leg of her journey. She will be there on the official invitation of Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta. This visit is significant as it will be the first time an Indian head of state has visited this Southeast Asian country. She is expected to hold a bilateral talk with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.
President Murmu’s three-nation tour will underscore India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste.
(With inputs from ANI)