Members of the Fijian diaspora in Santa Rosa, California had the opportunity to engage directly with the Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka during an interactive “talanoa” session last night.
The four-hour gathering provided an opportunity for the Prime Minister to highlight key national developments at home, and at the same time, informed the diaspora about the Coalition Government’s plans for the next two years.
At the outset, Prime Minister Rabuka acknowledged the tremendous contributions of Fijians overseas, in strengthening Fiji’s economy through remittances.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens worldwide and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve services for Fijians living abroad.
The PM asserted that Fijian diasporas worldwide are an integral part of our national identity.
Additionally, he also addressed the much-talked about issue of deportation.
While acknowledging the sovereign rights of the United States, Hon. Rabuka earlier highlighted that he would ask for compassion for our fellow country men and women, although residing beyond the validity of their immigration or entry and working permits authority, and have not broken any other laws, to be granted time to regularise their status, as has been the case for some in Fiji.
The interactive session allowed those present to raise issues particularly on immigration, and investment opportunities, FNPF membership, bank accounts and transfers, land development and consular services, to name just a few.
The Prime Minister acknowledged all issues raised, thanking the members of the diaspora for the candid and frank discussion.
