India Strengthens Ties with New Super-Specialty Hospital
“I am confident that this newly announced super-specialty cardiology hospital in Suva will significantly address the urgent needs of the people of Fiji and the wider Pacific region,” President Murmu said.
Wednesday 07 August 2024 | 13:59
President of the world’s largest democracy broke protocol to personally thank students who waited outside the Grand Pacific Hotel on Tuesday August 6, 2024. Her Excellency Droupadi Murmu spoke to at least five students of St. Anne’s Primary School and distributed chocolates. She asked for their names and what year they were in. President Murmu was on her way to the traditional welcome ceremony hosted by the Prime Minister. Students were impressed with her simplicity in both speech and attire. The Indian President is a former teacher. Photo: Ronald Kumar
The inauguration of a new 100-bed super-specialty cardiology hospital in Nasinu aims to address critical healthcare needs in Fiji and broader Pacific region.
Indian President Droupadi Murmu expressed optimism about the facility’s potential to enhance India-Fiji relations, highlighting its role in tackling non-communicable diseases with advanced medical infrastructure.
“I am confident that this newly announced super-specialty cardiology hospital in Suva will significantly address the urgent needs of the people of Fiji and the wider Pacific region,” President Murmu said.
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Speaker of Parliament Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu praised President Murmu’s visit for reaffirming the historical ties and shared goals between the two nations.
He commended the Indian Government for the hospital and acknowledged India’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This facility will benefit not only Fiji but also the entire Pacific region,” Ratu Naiqama said.
“We are also thankful for India’s early provision of vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, which was crucial for Fiji’s recovery.”
The hospital, announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 3rd Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation Summit, will be fully equipped and staffed by India.
This represents India’s largest initiative in Fiji and the Pacific region.
Deep appreciation At the Grand Pacific Hotel yesterday, a traditional Fijian ceremony welcomed President Murmu.
She emphasised the importance of preserving cultural traditions, praising the yaqona ceremony as a profound expression of hospitality.
She highlighted the need to honour cultural heritage while embracing modernity, as it is crucial for maintaining societal identity and unity among diverse races.
She also expressed gratitude for being welcomed into the Fijian family.
President Murmu also broke security protocol to personally thank students from St. Anne’s Primary School outside GPH, distributing chocolates and showcasing her dignity and respect.
Wearing a modest pink sari with canvas shoes, her simplicity and grace were evident.
Born into a Santhali tribal family, President Murmu overcame early hardships to become the first woman from her village to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree.
As the first woman tribal Governor of a tribal-majority state, she upheld Constitutional values and tribal rights.
Minister Lynda Tabuya praised President Murmu for her humility and the positive standard she sets for women in leadership.
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