His Excellency the President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau was today presented with a crown by his Timor Leste counterpart His Excellency Taur Matan Ruak in the country’s capital, Dili, today.
Today’s presentation on behalf of the people of Timor Leste was a symbolic gesture commending the Fijian President for his commitment to strengthening relations between the two nations.
“This crown I am presenting you is a to show that you are now our King and you can go and do anything you like in this country,” HE Ruak told the Fijian President who is in Timor Leste for a State Visit.
“Treat this country as your own and we hope that you will continue to visit us regularly”, HE Ruak said.
Timor Leste’s non – resident Ambassador to Fiji HE Abel Guterres said the crown was a symbol that will forever bind the two countries.
“We treasure this crown and it has been worn by our kings who ruled over Timor Leste for hundreds of years. We are thankful that a person of Ratu Epeli’s calibre has been presented this crown,” HE Guterres said.
“The crown is a sign of the highest order in our land and our respect for President HE Ratu Epeli is now even more meaningful because he is not only Fiji’s President but also one of our Kings.”
The visit by the Fijian Head of State is part of Fiji’s efforts to strengthen relations with its neighbours and at the same time thank neighboring countries for their continued support towards Fiji.
Ratu Epeli in return presented HE Ruak with a traditional iTaukei gift and invited HE Ruak to visit Fiji.
MINFO