President Murmu's Historic Pacific Tour: Fiji, New Zealand, Timor-Leste

President Droupadi Murmu embarks on a historic three-nation tour, visiting Fiji, New Zealand, and Timor-Leste. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and reinforce India's Act East Policy. President Murmu will hold key meetings and engage with local communities and the Indian diaspora during the trip.

President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Fiji on Monday, kicking off her historic three-nation tour. During this landmark visit, she will hold bilateral meetings with Fiji's President Katonivere and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

Setting out on Sunday, President Murmu's three-day stay in Fiji is at the invitation of Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere. Following Fiji, she will continue her journey to New Zealand and Timor-Leste.

This tour marks the first-ever visit by an Indian Head of State to Fiji and aims to bolster the long-standing relationships between India and the Pacific nations, highlighting India's Act East Policy.

In Fiji, President Murmu plans to address the country's Parliament and reach out to the Indian diaspora. The next leg of her visit takes her to New Zealand from August 7 to 9, where she will engage with Governor-General Cindy Kiro and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

Additionally, President Murmu will speak at an educational conference and interact with the Indian community in New Zealand. Her final stop is Timor-Leste, where she will meet President Jose Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, solidifying ties with this Southeast Asian nation.

The tour is significant as it marks the first head-of-state-level visit from India to Timor-Leste. This journey underscores India's commitment to its Act East Policy, initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 9th East Asia Summit in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies.)