Her Majesty – A Role Model for Women Empowerment: Jones
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the second have always been a role model for women and girls worldwide.
This was the message, British High Commissioner to Fiji Dr Brian Jones echoed while celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee of 70 years on the throne.
Dr Jones said Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second is the longest reigning female monarch.
“She’s been on the throne for 70 years, which is a huge achievement,” he said.
“She sets an example to women leaders and to women and girls worldwide and what that leadership instability looks like,” he said.
Reflecting on the Queen’s history, Mr Jones said Her Majesty was trained as a mechanic and truck driver at the age of 18 during the World War II.
Through her strength and leadership, Mr Jones said the Queen of England has held her seat on the throne for over 70 years.
“Which has been an inspiration to many women and girls,” he said.
Mr Jones said this powerful history has also inspired several women empowerment projects around the world including Fiji through the support of the British High Commission.
“Women’s empowerment matters to the British government and is important to our work in Fiji,” he said.
“We have over the last few years supported a number of projects to empower women economically through training in business and finance.
“We regularly showcase female-led businesses at our events. We will continue to be champions for gender equality and women’s empowerment and the prevention of genderbased violence.”
In Fiji, the British High Commission office also celebrated the Queen’s Birthday.
The event was attended by the President of the Republic of Fiji, His Excellency Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, members of Parliament, senior government officials and members of the Diplomatic Corps.
Bilateral relationship
Mr Jones shared the importance of bilateral relationship with Fiji and its shared history.
He said the United Kingdom has in recent years increased its profile and activity in the Pacific.
Such as re-joining the South Pacific Community 17 years after severing ties.
“We have four times as many British diplomats in Suva than we had four years ago,” he said.
“Fiji recently received a visit by a Royal Navy ship for the first time in 25 years.
“Our engagement on climate change including through chairing COP 26 has further bolstered our relationship with Fiji and other Pacific Nations.
“We understand the existential threat to the region from climate change and are determined to ensure that Pacific voices are heard and that their concerns are addressed.”
He adds the UK and Fiji bilateral relationship was built on stability and trust.