PM Modi commends Fiji for expressing faith in democracy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday praised the people of Fiji for selecting their government in a democratic way, and thereby, expressing faith in the democratic process.

"It is a great thing that you all selected your government in a democratic way some months back. Fiji has once again expressed its faith in democracy. Democracy is a process, which allows everyone to live their life, makes it possible for their dreams, and ambitions to come true," Prime Minister Modi, who is on a day-long visit to the island country, said at the Fiji National University.

He also expressed hope that democracy would continue to grow and strengthen in Fiji and said that the world needs to move forward on the path to knowledge.

"I am sure democracy here will continue to grow and strengthen. The world accepts that the 21st century is the knowledge century. So, whoever wants to move forward in this century whether it's a poor or rich country or strong country, it will have to move forward on the path of knowledge," he said.

Prime Minister also stressed that India was born with a worldly responsibility and added that it can't live just for itself.

"India has a new government, it's just six months old; but India can't live just for India, its development is not just for itself. Our saints and scholars have always said that India was born with a worldly responsibility and for that the country has to strengthen itself," he said.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Parliament of Fiji and stated that Suva could serve as a hub for stronger Indian engagement with Pacific Islands.

He said that his visit was an opportunity to renew an old relationship and lay the foundation for a strong partnership in the future.