The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is preparing for discussions with the Office of the President next week, focusing on a potential formal engagement with King Charles III. Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the GCC Chair, highlighted that the upcoming meeting is part of efforts to strengthen the longstanding traditional connections between the GCC and the British Monarchy.
This dialogue follows a previous meeting between President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu and King Charles during the President’s official trip to England last year. The forthcoming consultations will also involve the President’s Official Secretary and will aim to detail the objectives of any proposed visit, as well as the specific topics to be addressed with the King.
Ratu Viliame underscored the importance of clarifying the discussion points in advance. “We have to first clarify what is needed and what topics will be discussed with the King. Once that is confirmed, we will be able to finalize the GCC’s official visit, which will include the Tui Macuata,” he mentioned.
The council considers reestablishing formal engagements with the British Monarchy a crucial step in reinforcing Fiji’s traditional and historic ties with the Royal Family. This initiative reflects a genuine intent to cultivate relationships steeped in historical significance, aiming to connect contemporary interactions through a shared cultural heritage. Such meetings indicate a promising evolution in the diplomatic relationship between Fiji and the United Kingdom, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect.