Fiji PM Sitiveni Rabuka on his visit to India made a heartfelt statement to always treasure India and Indians in Fiji. He honoured Girmitiyas, Indian laborers in Fiji, who came to Fiji 100 years ago to work even under tough condition. In respect of Girmitiyas he highlighted that Fiji will celebrate Girmitiyas Day every May.
The PM also apologized for his controversial past. In 1987, when PM Rabuka was in military he formed a coup to overthrow Fiji’s first Indian decent Prime Minister. This has created a rift between the native Fijians and Indo- Fijians.
Adding to his speech he also spoke about future cooperation with India. He said that Fiji could learn from India’s fight against poverty and rural challenges. He believes that what crops grow in India can grow in Fiji too. He also appreciated India’s achievement in solar energy and medicines, saying that it will help Fiji in their partnership.
The story of Indian migration to Fiji spans over 145 years and more than 60,000 laborers. Their descendants have not only contributed to Fiji’s economy and culture but also helped shape its society in profound ways. Indian President Droupadi Murmu has also praised te diaspora’s success across generations and also their identity preservation.
PM Rabuka’s emotional acknowledgement and call for collaboration isn’t just a diplomatic protocol but an olive branch. By celebrating Girmitiyas Day and aligning with India’s path to upliftment and embracing shared history PM Rabuka shows that he aims for national progress for both, together.
