Traditional Welcoming Ceremony Accorded To The Minister For Foreign Affairs Of The State Of Israel

The Government of Fiji this morning accorded a Traditional Welcoming Ceremony to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, Honourable Gideon Sa’ar, at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva.

The ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka, Cabinet Ministers, senior Government officials, Members of Parliament, and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

As a mark of respect and honour, Honourable Sa’ar was formally received through a traditional veiqaravi vakavanua ceremony, reflecting Fiji’s rich cultural heritage and longstanding traditions of hospitality. The ceremony included the presentation of a tabua (whale’s tooth), a revered symbol of respect, goodwill and friendship in Fijian culture.

In his remarks, Honourable Sa’ar conveyed his sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Fiji for the warm reception and kind hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

“Thank you Mr. Prime Minister for true friendship, for your hospitality, I came from very far but I feel very close and I feel at home.

“I came to inaugurate the Israeli Embassy in Fiji and the Pacific Islands, in order to strengthen our great bilateral relations for the next generations. It’s an honor to meet your great tradition and heritage and to be accepted here in your distinguished country. Thank you”.
He also underscored the significance of the opening of Israel’s Embassy in Fiji, noting that it marks a new chapter in Fiji–Israel diplomatic relations and cooperation.

The programme for today will also included courtesy call on the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, high-level meeting with the Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, bilateral meeting with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka and other senior government officials, and the official opening of Israel’s Embassy in Suva, reaffirming the shared commitment of Fiji and Israel to deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across areas of mutual interest.