World Leaders wish Fiji well on 50 years of independence

Foreign leaders from the around the world have wished Fiji well as it celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence.

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, Queen Elizabeth II said she remembers fondly their first visit to Fiji in 1953, as well as their subsequent visits.

US President Donald Trump said the United States will continue working with Fiji to advance democracy, transparency and prosperity in the Pacific region.

China's President Xi Jinping said he puts great importance to China-Fiji relations and wishes to make joined efforts to further strengthen bilateral dialogues, exchanges and cooperation in various sectors.

Apostolic Nunciature of the Holy See

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, His Holiness Pope Francis said: “I send cordial greetings to Your Excellency and your fellow citizens on the occasion of Fiji Day. With my prayers that all in the nation will ever dwell in solidarity, peace and prosperity, I gladly invoke upon the Republic the abundant blessings of the Almighty God.”

Arab Republic of Egypt

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt Abdel Fattah Al Sisi said: “On the anniversary of the Independence Day of your friendly country it gives me immense pleasure to convey to Your Excellency my heartfelt greetings and best wishes"

“Please accept my sincerest wishes for the best of your well-being and for the progress and the welfare of the friendly people of Fiji.”

Australia

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, Australia’s Governor-General David Hurley said: “On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Fiji’s independence, I wish to convey to you, the Government and the people of the Republic of Fiji, my warmest wishes, together those of the Australian Government and people.

“Fifty years ago, Fiji took its place in the international community as an independent state and began to make its mark, regionally in our Blue Pacific, and globally. During this time, the Australia-Fiji relationship has had its challenges, but it is now stronger than ever. Always neighbours, we have now become family. Through our Vuvale Partnership, we are committed to a new era of cooperation, consultation and friendship, based on trust, mutual respect and understanding"

“The solidarity of the international community is more important than ever as the world’s nations work together to manage the challenges posed by the COVID-19 virus. Australia is particularly proud to stand in partnership with Fiji at this time.”

Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka Gotabaya Rajapaksa said: “On behalf of the Government and the people of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and on my own behalf, I am happy to convey to Your Excellency, the Government and the people of Fiji, sincere greetings and warm wishes on the happy occasion of the National Day of Fiji"

“Sri Lanka and Fiji enjoy bilateral relations based on mutual understanding and goodwill. I am confident that the friendly ties we enjoy over the time will be further strengthened in the years ahead for the mutual benefit of our two countries and peoples.”

Hungary

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of Hungary János Áder said: “Allow me, on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji to express my sincere best wishes to You and to all the citizens of your country"

“I highly appreciate the friendship and cooperation between our countries, and I am pleased that we can further strengthen these relations through joint efforts in climate diplomacy, which is so important to both our countries.”

Ireland

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins said: “As President of Ireland and on behalf of the people of Ireland may I convey to your Excellency and the people of the Republic of Fiji sincere congratulations and warmest greetings on the occasion of your National Day"

“May I avail of this opportunity to express, Ireland’s solidarity in the task of achieving a global economy that will be instrumental in offering security on the necessities of life to all the citizens who share our vulnerable planet, and in honouring our shared commitments in responding to climate change and achieving Sustainable Development Goals.”

Japan

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito said: “On the occasion of Fiji Day of the Republic of Fiji, this year especially marking the fifty years of Independence of the Republic of Fiji, I have great pleasure in sending Your Excellency my heartfelt congratulations and sincere good wishes for Your happiness and for the prosperity of the people of Your country.”

People’s Republic of China

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping said “On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Fiji, I wish to extend, on behalf of myself as well as the Chinese Government and Chinese people, to you and through you to the Fijian Government and the Fijian people, my sincere congratulations and best wishes"

“During the 50 years, since its independence, Fiji has been actively exploring the development path that suits its own circumstances and managed to achieve continued socio-economic development. China congratulates Fiji on such achievements"

“China and Fiji are good friends and good partners. The two sides enjoy high-level political mutual trusts and remarkable achievements in various sectors"

“In the fight against COVID-19, China and Fiji joined hands and supported each other, safeguarded the health of our two peoples and deepened the friendship between two peoples.”

President Xi Jinping also said that he puts great importance to China-Fiji relations and wishes to make joined efforts to further strengthen bilateral dialogues, exchanges and cooperation in various sectors, promote the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Fiji and bring more benefits to the two countries and two peoples.

Republic Of Cuba

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Republic of Cuba Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez said: “I am pleased to congratulate you cordially on the occasion of the National Day of Republic of Fiji, I hereby renew our willingness to further the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations,” President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez stated in his congratulatory message."

Republic of India

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Republic of India Ram Nath Kovind said: “On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency, the Government and the people of the Republic of Fiji on the occasion of your 50th Independence Day."“India and Fiji are also marking 50 years of diplomatic relations this year. It is a momentous occasion in the history of our bilateral relationship. India values its warm and cordial ties with the Republic of Fiji which are anchored in shared values, common aspirations, convergence of views and cooperation in international fora."

“These relations have been further strengthened through initiatives such as Forum for India Pacific Islands Cooperation, the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure."

“I am glad that our development partnership encompasses various fields such as climate change, renewable energy, disaster risk reduction and women empowerment. We also look forward to hold the third summit of Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation in near future once COVID-19 situation improves."

“I am confident that our nations shall surmount the current challenge posed by COVID-19.”

Republic of Indonesia

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo said: “On this proud occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Independence Day of Fiji, I have the privilege to extend my warmest welcome to you and the people of Fiji.

“I am delighted that our two countries have been closely working together in a spirit of partnership. I believe that cooperation between us have benefitted immensely to the prosperity of our peoples.

“Furthermore, as fellow members of the Pacific family, our two countries share many common interests and continuously contributing to the advancement of the region.”

“Allow me, Excellency, to offer my prayers to you and the people of Fiji. May health and prosperity be with you all, particularly during this challenging global environment."

Republic of Korea

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Republic of Korea Moon Jae-In said: “On the occasion of the 50th Independence Day of the Republic of Fiji, I wish to convey my warmest message of congratulations to Your Excellency and to the people of the Republic of Fiji.

“I hope the friendly and cooperative ties that our two countries have cultivated thus far will bear plenty of fruits. I look forward to engaging in close cooperation with Your Excellency to this end.”

Republic of Marshall Islands

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Republic of Marshall Islands David Kabua said, “ On behalf of the Government and the People of Republic of the Marshall Islands, I wish to convey our sincere congratulations and best wishes to you and the People of the Republic of Fiji on the 50th anniversary of your nation’s Independence Day on 10 October 2020. It is my fervent hope that the cordial relations between our two countries will continue to be strengthened for the mutual benefit of both our peoples. Furthermore, I wish to convey the Republic of the Marshall Islands’ solidarity with the Republic of Fiji during these unprecedented and challenging times amid coronavirus pandemic and commend the Republic of Fiji’s leadership in its response and containment of coronavirus in Fiji.”

Swiss Confederation (Switzerland)

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the Swiss Confederation Mrs Simonetta Sommaruga said: “I would like to send you my very best wishes for the 50th Day of Independence of the Republic of Fiji. Good, trusting relations between our two countries enable us to address major global challenges together."

“I very much look forward to working with you to meet these challenges. Marking this important milestone in the history of your country, I wish you and the people of the Republic of Fiji happiness, prosperity and every success for the future.”

Spain

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the King of Spain Felipe VI said: “On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji, I should like to convey to you my most heartfelt congratulations, alongside with those of the Government and the People of Spain. Please, receive, Mr. President my best wishes for your personal wellbeing and for the peace and prosperity for the dear people of Fiji.”

State of Palestine

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, the President of the State of Palestine, Mahmoud Abbas said: “On behalf of the State of Palestine and the Palestinian people, I am pleased to extend my heartfelt congratulations to your Excellency on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji."

“On this auspicious occasion, I wish Fiji and its friendly people abundant prosperity and tremendous success. It is my sincere hope the friendship and cooperation between our countries will continue to flourish and prosper. I’m very confident that we will continue to build on the foundations that we have to further enhance our bilateral ties for many years to come."

“I would like to seize this opportunity to express our utmost appreciation to you, Fijian Government and the Fijian people for your continuous support to the Palestinian self-determination including the right of the Palestinian people in establishing a sovereign and independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital"

“Once again, I send my warmest congratulations on your Fiji Day.”

Tonga

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, King Tupou VI said: “On the auspicious occasion of the celebration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Fiji, I would like to convey my congratulations and sincere wishes for the good health, peace and prosperity of the people of Fiji.”

The Kingdom of Netherland

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, King Willem-Alexander R. said: “May I extend to your Excellency my congratulations and my best wishes for the well-being of the people of the Fiji Islands."

“As we mark this occasion, I want to acknowledge that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic represents and unprecedented challenge to us all. I wish you, your government and the people of Fiji Islands strength, courage and health as together we continue our efforts to overcome coronavirus.”

United Kingdom (Britain)

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, Queen Elizabeth II said “On the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of Fiji’s independence, The Duke of Edinburgh joins me in sending our good wishes to you and the people of the Republic of Fiji. We remember fondly our first visit to Fiji in 1953, as well as our subsequent visits"

“Our two nations retain a close bond, which has developed over many years, and long may that continue. As you celebrate this anniversary year, I send my congratulations to you all, and my best wishes for Fiji and the happiness, health and prosperity of its people. Elizabeth R.”

United States of America

In a congratulatory message to President Jioji Konrote, US President Donald Trump said: “On behalf of the American people, I congratulate you and the citizens of Fiji as you celebrate 50 years of Independence on October 10."

“The United States has enjoyed shared values and a close friendship with Fiji during the half-century since your independence in 1970. As we address the challenges of 2020, our comprehensive relationship is expanding to include greater cooperation on security, closer coordination on development, and new commercial opportunities."

“The United States will continue working with Fiji to advance democracy, transparency and prosperity in the Pacific region."

Canada

A congratulatory message was conveyed by the Speaker of Senate, George J. Furey and Speaker of the House of Commons, Anthony Rota to the Speaker of the Parliament of Fiji Ratu Epeli Nailatikau on the occasion of Fiji’s 50th Anniversary of Independence.

“It is our pleasure on behalf of the Parliament of Canada, to extend our warmest congratulations and best wishes to you and the people of the Republic of Fiji. This occasion also observes the remarkable milestone of Fiji’s 50th anniversary of independence and 50 years of diplomatic ties between Canada and Fiji.

“Let us take this opportunity to reiterate our commitment to promoting a better relationship between our parliaments through the exchange of ideas and best practices. Indeed, we believe that cooperation is the key to fulfilling the most noble aspirations of our societies and to building resilient institutions equipped to address unforeseen challenges.”

Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Prime Minister of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa said: “It gives me great pleasure to extend to Your Excellency and the people of the Republic of Fiji, my warm greetings and best wishes on the auspicious occasion of the National Day of Fiji.

“I have no doubt that the congenial relation that exist between our two countries built on shared values and mutual respect will continue to flourish in the years to come.”

Hungary

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Hungary’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó said:

“Please allow me to express my sincere congratulations on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji, the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.

“I am confident that the cooperation established between our countries in many areas in recent years can be further developed on the basis of mutual respect. Our educational cooperation provides an excellent opportunity for this in the framework of which students from Fiji National University and Szent Istvan University can participate in exchange programs."

“I wish you much success and good health in your highly responsible position.”

Islamic Republic of Pakistan

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Imran Khan said: “On behalf of the people and Government of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, I wish to extend heartiest felicitations on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji."

“Relations between Pakistan and Fiji are underpinned by shared objectives and commonality of vision for future. Our two countries share similarities of views on most of the regional and international matters of mutual interests. I am confident that these bonds of friendship would be further strengthened through political, economic, commercial, educational and cultural exchanges.”

Japan

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Prime Minister of Japan Suga Yoshihide said: “This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Japan-Fiji diplomatic relations. It is a great pleasure to see that the cooperative and friendly relations between our countries have been further strengthened through people-to-people exchanges, including student exchanges and actions on climate change."

“I am saddened to hear that COVID -19 has caused immense impact on Fiji’s economy this year. I would also like to convey my heartfelt sympathy to those who suffered from Cyclone Harold, which hit Fiji in April this year.

“In order to overcome these challenges, Japan has provided 20million dollars’ worth of loan assistance to support the disaster recovery. Furthermore, to help Fiji strengthen its measures against COVID-19, Japan is extending assistance worth 6.8million dollars and over in medical supplies and equipment. Japan will continue to strongly support Fiji in various fields, hand-in-hand with Your Honorable Prime Minister, who has shown distinguished leadership.”

Kiribati

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the President of the Republic of Kiribati Taneti Maamau said: “It is my greatest honour on behalf of the Government and the people of Kiribati, to extend our warmest congratulations to your good self, the Government and the people of Fiji on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of your National Fiji Day."

“The 10th of October this year marks a significant commemoration where Fijians the world over will celebrate and express their true love for their nation, God and for each other; a day that symbolizes the proud past and a future filled with hope, growth, good health and prosperity."

“I commend and applaud the Fijian Government’s great achievements under your leadership. Despite the unprecedented COVID-19 impacts in our region and the world, Fiji celebrating its National Day safely with the promotion of ‘Decorate Your Home’ initiative. This truly reflects the importance of people’s health over everything in these difficult times."

“May I also take this opportunity to offer my very sincere gratitude to you and your Government for your continued humanitarian support to the Government of Kiribati."

"In particular, with regards to visa waiver and support to our repatriation preparation for our Kiribati populace who are currently stranded in Fiji due to this COVID-19 pandemic and are to return to Kiribati in the coming months."

“Kiribati truly values the close friendship and bilateral relations with Fiji and as you reflect on Fiji’s achievements as people and as a nation, I wish to reassure you Honourable Prime Minister of my Government’s continued commitment to our bilateral relations and I have no doubt that the vibrant and close relations that we continue to enjoy with Fiji and your people will continue to flourish under your good leadership for many years to come.”

New Zealand

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Winston Peters said: “On behalf of the New Zealand Government, warm congratulations on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of independence."

“Fiji is a vibrant and culturally diverse country which leads on critical issues of regional and global importance. We are proud to call Fiji a cherished partner. Our countries have a strong foundation of shared values and people-to-people connection. Since Fiji’s independence in 1970, also the year we established formal diplomatic relations, we have deepened our partnership with the Government of Fiji."

“We have worked together to foster trade, strengthen defence capability and address regional issues. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in good times, as well as in tough times in the wake of natural disasters and other hardships. We now stand together facing a complex global pandemic, COVID-19, which is a test of resilience for us all. For the Pacific, the economic impacts are immense. In this context, we share Fiji’s desire to resume travel between our countries and objective of doing so as soon as it is safe."

“Working together we will be able to recover faster and come back stronger. Congratulations again on 50 years of Fiji’s independence.”

People’s Republic of Bangladesh

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina said: “On the auspicious occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji, it is my honour and privilege to convey the warmest greetings of the government and the people of the Bangladesh to you and through you to the government and the people of Fiji. Bangladesh attaches great importance to her relations with Fiji. Our cordial relations are grounded on our shared ethos of democracy and human rights, common aspirations for better lives of our peoples and for regional and global peace. Both our countries are confronted with similar challenges of development and adverse impacts of climate change. We deeply value the support rendered to us by Fiji in various international fora to carry forward our common causes. I also feel that there remains ample opportunities to enhance our bilateral cooperation through sharing knowledge and enhancing trade and investment.”

Republic of Cuba

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Cuba Manuel Marrero Cruz said:

“I congratulate you cordially on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Fiji. Let me also renew our willingness to strengthen the relations of friendship and cooperation between our nations.”

Republic of Indonesia

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo said, “On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Indonesia, I wish to convey my warmest congratulations to you and the people of Fiji, on the 50th Anniversary of Independence Day of Fiji."

“I am pleased to note that our friendly relations and mutual cooperation have become more robust, as shown by the growing people-to-people and business-to-business relations, particularly in the field of development cooperation."

“I wish to assure you that Indonesia is committed to strengthen our partnership and cooperation in the benefit and prosperity of our people.”

Republic of Indonesia

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Indonesian Minister for Foreign Affairs Retno L.P. Marsudi said, “It is a privilege for me to convey to you my warmest congratulations on the 50th Anniversary of the Independence Day of Fiji. The celebration this year arrived at a challenging time for both of our Governments and peoples. Therefore, further collaboration between our countries, as vibrant members of the Pacific family and the global community is needed to overcome this difficult situation."

"I also wish to take this opportunity to appreciate our partnership at our borders especially for the repatriation of both nationals. The ease of coordination and facilitation for the repatriation process demonstrates how strategic our relations have become.”

The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Prime Minister of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria Abdelaziz Djerad said: “The celebration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Fiji gives me the pleasant occasion to extend to your Excellency my warmest congratulations as well as my best wishes for your personal happiness and wellbeing, and progress and prosperity for the friendly people of Fiji."

“I would like, on this happy opportunity, to assure you of my full readiness to work together with you for the strengthening of the ties of friendship and solidarity existing between our two countries.”

The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sabri Boukadoum said: “It is with great pleasure on the occasion of the celebration of the Independence day of your country to extend to your Excellency my warmest congratulations as well as my best wishes for the wellbeing happiness and progress and prosperity to the friendly people of Fiji. I would like to seize this happy opportunity to assure you of my entire readiness to work together with you for the consolidation and the promotion of mutual bilateral cooperation for the benefit of our two friendly countries.”

Tuvalu

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, Tuvaluan Prime Minister Kausea Natano said: “On this momentous and joyful occasion of the 50th Independence Day of the Republic of Fiji, I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency and to the people of Fiji."

“50th Anniversary marks the half-century of your People’s Independence and their resilience and their resilience in overcoming many challenges of different scale which has rightly put Fiji on the Global stage." “Tuvalu will continue to stand firmly with Fiji to further strengthen our existing cooperation and work closely to address our common interest in sustainable development, conservation and climate change.”

Malaysia

In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, the Malaysian High Commissioner based in Suva, Ilham Illias Tuah said:

“I wish to also congratulate you and the Fijian people on the 50th Celebration of Fiji Day on 10 October 2020. May Fiji be blessed and prosper under your able leadership.”

[Source: Fijian Government]