The controversy comes at a time when Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has called for an “all-of-New Zealand” approach to strengthening ties with India.
As Speaker, Dick oversees parliamentary debates and procedures of 150 members—similar to Om Birla, who manages the much larger Lok Sabha with 543 members.
Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, also attended the Suva leg of the performance, calling it “a powerful tribute to our Girmitiya heritage.”
Her appointment not only elevates Canada’s diplomatic corps but also shines a spotlight on the contributions of the Indian diaspora to Canadian public life.
In his new role, Watts will leverage his extensive diplomatic experience – including visits to India – to strengthen Australia’s regional partnerships.
Overseas-born individuals now make up 32 per cent of the country’s estimated population of 27.6 million—approaching the historic peak of 32.4 per cent recorded in 1891.
