DUBAI – Fiji celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Wednesday with an impressive line-up of cultural and entertainment activities at Al Wasl Plaza and the Fiji Pavilion, including a traditional song and dance performance known as ‘meke’ that demonstrated why the South Pacific Ocean island is known for being one of the happiest nations on Earth.
Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, accompanied by Faiyaz Sidiqq Koya, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Tourism, was welcomed by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai.
Prime Minister Bainimarama said: “Today, you will hear the Fijian story… of a young nation, filled with talented and ambitious people… a growing hub of innovation, transportation and connectivity in a world that grows more connected by the minute. A nation home to a vast expanse of some of the world’s most vibrant reefs and forests, and 1.3 million sqkm of ocean… an area five times the size of the Persian Gulf… a society that has seen the worst of climate change, that is taking bold measures to protect itself and to urge other countries to reduce dangerous emissions that are warming our world, and bringing about droughts, changing weather patterns, and causing the seas to rise.
“Within Fiji’s pavilion, you will see stark images of climate adaptation and devastation, but that alone is not our story. There are images of resilience, and examples of our courageous climate approach… for in Fiji, we are turning the front line of the climate crisis into the cutting edge of sustainable innovation, investment and trade. We are transforming our vulnerability… to make bigger investments, bigger leaps in technology, and seize bigger gains in the wellbeing of our citizens.”
His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan, said: “Acknowledging that we live in an interconnected world and share the responsibility of engaging with one another, Fiji uses its platform at Expo 2020 to highlight and cement its leading role in global conversations on climate change and resilience-building.
“My friends, we greatly appreciate and embrace the enthusiasm with which you have encompassed the theme of our Expo at your exhibition, where visitors are invited to experience all the ways in which Fiji has become a leader and advocate in climate change, discover Fiji’s seven secrets to happiness, and immerse themselves in the country’s stunning natural landscape.”
Fiji’s reputation as one of the happiest nations on Earth has formed the basis for many of its tourism campaigns. As he opened his speech, Prime Minister Bainimarama confirmed that Fiji had started to welcome overseas visitors again at the start of December, after a period of two years. He said: “After fully vaccinating nearly every adult in our country, Fiji is once again open for happiness and to each of you.”
The Fiji National Day celebrations took place the day after Prime Minister Bainimarama toured the country’s pavilion with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The two discussed the ties between the UAE and Fiji, and explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefits of both countries.
It was a sentiment echoed by Faiyaz Sidiqq Koya, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Tourism for Fiji, who noted the support and donations that the UAE has given Fiji over the years – including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and medical assistance in the fight against COVID-19, donations to help rebuild schools damaged by cyclones, and support in the country’s move towards sustainable energy.
Koya said: “We’ve had a lot of assistance from the UAE, and they continue to be of assistance. But now we hope to find more investment for tourism.”
At the Fiji Pavilion, located in the Opportunity District, visitors can learn more about how the nation is becoming a global leader and innovator in the fight against climate change, including details of its efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Visitors can also take the seven steps to become a ‘bulannaire’ (‘bula’ being a common phrase in Fiji that means ‘hello’ or ‘welcome’) and be rich in happiness.
National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of our 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements, and showcasing their pavilions and programming.
Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.