President speaks of hope, best days ahead
NOW that clouds of the pandemic are parting, we can see a new dawn of hope. If we hold fast to the principles of peace, unity, compassion, and equality, our best days remain ahead of us.
The President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote, while delivering his Fiji Day message, said, “As we celebrate our beloved Fiji, our resilience, our unity and our independence. 51 years ago today, our sovereignty as an independent nation ceased to be an aspiration. It became a reality.”
“Today, throughout our islands and abroad, pride swells in the hearts of every Fijian as we look upon our noble banner blue and reflect on the hard work, ingenuity and faith it has taken to forge the Fiji we know and love today.”
President Konrote said this Fiji Day was the first step into the next half-century and like so many around the world, it is also the first step into the new normal as Fijians recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are on the cusp of a recovery that can take us to new heights if we commit to it together.”
“The world is looking to Fiji once again as we champion the cause of climate and oceans action. Soon, the world’s leaders –– together with our Prime Minister –– will convene in Glasgow, Scotland, at COP26, the global climate negotiations.”
President Konrote added this will be the most important year for climate action since leaders signed on to the Paris Agreement almost six years ago.
“Its outcome will determine the extent of our vulnerability to climate change, as well as the security of billions of people in all corners of the world.”
“To our children and grandchildren, know that preserving your future, and your potential, is our greatest priority.”
The Head of State further emphasised that it was the future generations whose task it was to strive for excellence in whatever they choose to do, in sports, in school, and even in their chores at home.
“Because your success stands taller than any other achievement we strive for as a nation and we want you to stand tall on a foundation of a resilient nation.”
“For months, hope of a better tomorrow has been elusive due to the unknowns and uncertainty of the pandemic. Today, let us have the courage to embrace hope, for we have earned it.”