Fiji and KOICA Pursue Strengthened Partnership
25/03/2021
Solidarity is Essential for Advancement of Regional Cooperation
29/03/2021Published On: 27/03/2021
The livestreaming of the Pacific Islands Memorial dedication event was organised today by the New Zealand High Commission in Fiji.
In attendance at the program was His Excellency the President Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konusi Konrote, Honourable Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, Honourable Speaker of Parliament, His Excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Honourable Minister for Defence and National Security Inia Seruiratu and members of the diplomatic corps and staff of the New Zealand High Commission.
The program featured unveiling of a new Memorial by the New Zealand Prime Minister Rt Hon. Jacinda Ardern. The Memorial acknowledges the contribution of Pacific nations to military conflicts and the bonds shared with New Zealand.
In presenting the floral tributes at this occasion, Fiji’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Mr. Filimone Waqabaca said, “It was an honour to attend the event in memory of Pacific Islanders who fought for New Zealand during the two world wars and global conflicts.
“The Pacific Islands Heads of Mission have been meeting for a while now to discuss this so it’s fulfilling to see it come to fruition. It is great to be part of this dedication event of the Pacific Islands Memorial: “Te Reo Hotunui o Te Moana nui a Kiwa- The Deep Sigh of the Pacific.”
The design depicts a bronze conch shell, a symbol deeply rooted in Pacific cultures, and has a patina finish with remembrance poppies.
The design recalls the conch shell left in the Arras Tunnels by Kuki Airani (Cook Island) soldiers of The New Zealand tunnelling Company and the New Zealand (Māori) Pioneer Battalion, who were stationed beneath the town of Arras during 1916 to 1918.
