Fijians living and working in Palau have been urged to embrace their role as “everyday ambassadors” of Fiji while respecting the laws, customs and traditions of Palau.
The message was delivered by Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Sakiasi Ditoka, as he met with members of the Fijian diaspora community in Palau yesterday.
Ditoka was accompanied by Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Dr. Raijeli Taga, and Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Sivendra Michael.
While highlighting the importance of the long-standing friendship between the two Pacific nations, Ditoka said Fiji’s relationship with Palau was not only about government meetings and regional interests, but was first and foremost about the people who continue to build connections between the two countries.
He acknowledged the contribution of Fijians working across different sectors in Palau, including health and statistics, saying each person plays a part in Palau’s development.
He says they are in many respects Fiji’s everyday ambassadors, and that also carries with it a responsibility.
Ditoka urged Fijians to respect Palau’s laws, customs and traditions, look after one another and ensure younger generations remain connected to their Fijian heritage.
He says Fijians could be proud members of the communities in which they live while remaining closely connected to their roots and identity.
The Minister also acknowledged the financial contribution of Fijians living overseas, noting that remittances sent home provide important support to families across Fiji and remain a lifeline for many households.
He reaffirmed the Fiji Government’s commitment to strengthening engagement with Fijians living abroad and making government services more accessible to the diaspora.
The gathering brought together around 50 members of the Fijian diaspora, along with 15 children, and included a talanoa session where members of the community had the opportunity to raise their concerns, experiences and issues directly with the Ministers.
