The President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, welcomed the Minister of State for External Affairs of India, Pabitra Margherita, during a courtesy call at the State House on 12 May 2025, marking the Indian minister’s first official visit to Fiji.
President Lalabalavu extended warm greetings on behalf of the Fijian Government and its people, reaffirming the historical and cultural bonds between the two nations, especially during the Girmit Day commemorations. He emphasised that although diplomatic relations were formally established 54 years ago, the India-Fiji connection stretches back 146 years to the arrival of Indian indentured labourers, whose descendants now form a vibrant part of Fijian society.
“Our shared history is the foundation of a relationship that has evolved into strong cooperation across health, trade, agriculture, education, and climate change,” President Lalabalavu said.
“Fiji deeply values India’s leadership in advocating for the Global South and its partnership in building a climate-resilient world.”
He acknowledged India’s support in sustainability initiatives, notably the solarisation project at the State House, and praised India’s commitment to reducing emissions and investing in a green transition.
Minister Margherita expressed his gratitude for Fiji’s hospitality, calling the island nation “God’s own country.”
The Minister visited the State House solarisation project and earlier engaged with the Indian diaspora and Friends of India in Nadi. He also inaugurated a session with ICCR alumni, highlighting their contributions as symbols of enduring educational and cultural ties.
In a virtual ceremony, he opened a yoga centre in Seaqaqa alongside Fiji’s Minister for Employment, Agni Deo Singh. Minister Margherita observed:
“This centre reflects our strong historical and cultural ties and promotes holistic health and wellness.”
Minister Margherita announced upcoming Indian-supported projects, including a 100-bed super-specialty cardiology hospital in Nasinu and a forthcoming memorandum of understanding on pharmacopeia. He also urged greater uptake of Indian government scholarships, noting that Fiji only utilises about 75% of the allocated quota annually.
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