Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has clarified that the recent communication regarding a potential meeting between the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) and King Charles III was informal and should not be interpreted as an immediate travel arrangement to London. Rabuka stated that he was misquoted by The Fiji Times, which suggested that the delegation would visit in November.
In his comments, Mr. Rabuka explained that the GCC’s meeting is scheduled for November 25, during which they will discuss whether to formally accept an invitation to meet with the King. He emphasized the need for an official written communication, which he plans to send once he receives a notification from the President of Fiji, who recently visited London. This letter will be an agenda item for the upcoming GCC meeting in late November.
In response to the earlier reports, the GCC Secretariat issued a statement asserting that no formal invitation had been received from Buckingham Palace regarding a meeting with the King. GCC Chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula had expressed surprise at the Prime Minister’s announcement, confirming that the council only learned of the potential engagement through media coverage.
The Great Council of Chiefs, reinstated in 2023 after a 16-year hiatus, is expected to address various critical national matters during its forthcoming discussions. This meeting represents an important opportunity for the GCC to contribute to the national dialogue, signaling a return to traditional governance practices in Fiji.
This situation reflects ongoing efforts to enhance Fiji’s diplomatic relations, especially as King Charles III has previously expressed interest in fostering closer ties through economic collaboration, particularly in the mahogany and sugar industries. His acknowledgment of the contributions made by Fijian soldiers in the British Armed Forces further emphasizes the historically significant relationship between Fiji and the UK.
As the GCC prepares for its meeting, there is a hopeful outlook for collaboration that could lead to beneficial partnerships and enrich Fiji’s international engagement. The dialogue reflects a dedication to respectful and formal diplomatic practices, paving the way for nurturing relations between Fiji and the British monarchy in the future.