Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has provided clarity regarding the upcoming meeting of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), which is set to take place in November. He confirmed that the Council will formally assess an invitation to send a delegation to engage with the official secretary to the King in London. This announcement follows remarks from GCC Chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, who pointed out that the Council had not yet received any official invitation from the British monarch or through any formal diplomatic channels.
Rabuka stressed that discussions surrounding the matter had been informal thus far, and he backed Seruvakula’s stance of withholding action until a proper invitation is received in writing. Rabuka stated, “No, it was just informally communicated and he is quite right that they cannot do anything until they are formally informed by, in writing, an official communication which I will send from the government, from the office of the prime minister, having received the notification from his Excellency the President when he was there.”
He indicated that this notification would be issued by the Prime Minister’s office, following correspondence from the President. To ensure the Council is ready for deliberation, Rabuka confirmed that the letter would be directed to both the chairman and secretary of the GCC. The proposed engagement is set to be a key agenda item during the Council’s meeting scheduled for November 25.
This potential dialogue reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen relations between Fiji and the UK, especially following King Charles III’s expressed interest in enhancing economic ties. The conversation holds promise for revitalizing historical connections while addressing contemporary issues and cultural identity within Fiji. As this process unfolds, there is hope for constructive discussions that foster collaboration and partnership between Fiji and the British monarchy.