President Droupadi Murmu begins 3-nation visit, arrives in Fiji

President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Fiji on Monday, marking the beginning of a significant three-nation diplomatic tour. This visit represents a historic milestone as the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to Fiji, underscoring the growing importance of India’s relations with Pacific nations.

During her two-day stay in Fiji, President Murmu is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. Her itinerary includes addressing the Fijian Parliament and engaging with the local Indian diaspora, aimed at strengthening the historic ties between the two countries.

Following her visit to Fiji, President Murmu will travel to New Zealand from August 7 to 9 at the invitation of Governor General Cindy Kiro. Her agenda in New Zealand includes bilateral meetings with Kiro and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, as well as addressing an education conference and interacting with the Indian community.

The final leg of her tour will take President Murmu to Timor-Leste on August 10, marking another first as the inaugural head-of-state visit from India to the country. She is set to meet with Timor-Leste’s President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao.

This tri-nation tour is seen as a strong reflection of India’s Act East Policy, first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi a decade ago at the 9th East Asia Summit. The visits are expected to strengthen India’s diplomatic and economic ties in the region, emphasizing the country’s commitment to fostering relationships with Pacific and Southeast Asian nations.