Prince Charles looks set to attend the 50th anniversary celebrations of Fiji’s Independence next year.

He has been invited by President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote.

Barring no hiccups, the presence of the Prince of Wales will be of great historical significance.

It will also be a nostalgic moment.

On October 10, 1970 Prince Charles handed over the Instruments of Independence to then Chief Minister, the late Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara at Albert Park in Suva.

It was an emotional moment as the British Union Jack was lowered for the last time and the new Fijian banner blue was hoisted for the first time.

The Fijian flag has since flown proudly in many countries around the world – at sports events and some of the volatile regions where our peacekeepers serve with honour.

Prince Charles met the Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama, and his delegation at Clarence House, a royal residence on The Mall in the city of Westminster, London, yesterday.

Mr Bainimarama, while talking to Prince Charles, reiterated President Konrote’s official invitation to the Prince of Wales to be part of the grand celebrations.

Mr Bainimarama said Fiji looked forward to “welcoming His Royal Highness to the historical celebration of our 50th year of independence.”

It has been speculated in the British media that Prince Charles is preparing to be crowned as the new King.

His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, 93, is said to be planning to abdicate to allow Charles to ascend to the throne.

On behalf of the Government and people of Fiji, Mr Bainimarama also conveyed Fiji’s well-wishes to the United Kingdom as it prepares for national elections in a fortnight.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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