Kicker: President Droupadi Murmu also thanked the Fiji government for making Hindi an official language in the country.
Suva: President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Indian diaspora in Suva while on a three-nation visit, starting in Fiji, and said that it is a "great feeling" to meet Indians in foreign countries. Starting her address with 'Ram Ram, Ni Sa Bula' - a Fijian greeting that means good evening - she said, "I am overwhelmed by meeting Indians in Fiji. In the last 24 hours, I have been overwhelmed with the heartwarming welcome of the people of Fiji. However, it is my first visit to Fiji, but with your love and support, I feel like I am in my home".
She also thanked Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere for inviting her and conferring 'Companion of the Order of Fiji', the highest civilian award in the country. President Murmu stressed that it is a "great feeling" to meet Indians in foreign countries and said, "Indian nationals have left their impact wherever they have gone... I am also happy to know that many organisations like Shri Sanatan Dharma Sabha, Aarya Pratinidhi Sabha, and Fiji Muslim League are helping Fiji in shaping this country very well."
"The Indian diaspora in Fiji has significantly contributed to the development of the country and the Pacific region," the President said, adding that both nations share "historic relations" and must work together to "voice the concerns of the Global South".
She also thanked the Fiji government for making Hindi an official language in the country. Talking about the forthcoming celebrations of the 78th Independence Day of India, the President said, "India is doing well in every aspect. India is the fastest-growing economy in the whole world. And, we will soon become the third-largest economy".
