National Day of Thanksgiving declared for tomorrow to commemorate the release of detained Fijian soldiers

A National Day of Thanksgiving has been declared for tomorrow for the nation to commemorate the release of the 45 Fijian United Nations Peacekeepers in Syria.

Fijians have been urged to hold services across the country, with a center piece National Service of Thanksgiving taking place at the National Stadium in Suva tomorrow afternoon.

The multi‑faith service beginning at 4.30 pm is open to everyone and will see contributions from all the main religions in Fiji.

The keynote address will be given by the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, before a gathering that will also include the Prime Minister, political leaders and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

A special place of honour will be reserved for the families and friends of the 45 soldiers, whose bravery and fortitude has lifted the hearts of the entire nation.

A Ministry of Information statement said that while the focus of the celebrations would be at the National Stadium in Suva, Fijians were being urged to hold similar gatherings across the nation.