Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka met with the Fijian community in Papua New Guinea last night where he updated them on the People’s Coalition government’s development priorities.
Workers, students and families of Fijian descent gathered at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby to welcome the Prime Minister, who is leading a delegation to PNG for an official visit ahead of the 3rd Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit.
Prime Minister Rabuka told those present that Fiji is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and it would take time to fully restore economic growth in the country.
“It will take some time to repair the damage caused in the past. It is not going to be easy but we have to be prepared to accept the good and bad. I am prepared to weather the storm and seasons in the years ahead,” he said.
“Please continue to be law-abiding people of this great nation and continue to fly our Fiji flag with pride. Look after yourselves well and the name of the country you represent.”
Prime Minister Rabuka also conveyed his sincere gratitude to the members of the Fijian community for their contribution to our economy back home through remittances.
“I thank you very much for the remittances you send home. Our prayers and blessings are with you all.”
After the formalities, a talanoa session was held where the Fijian community raised their issues and concerns directly with the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister will attend an official dinner with other Pacific leaders tonight.
The Pacific leaders are in PNG for the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC III Summit) which starts tomorrow 22 May.
The FIPIC Summit, co-hosted by the Governments of India and PNG, will be held at the APEC Haus.
