Vanuatu dancers to offer apology
05.10.2006 22:55 Fiji - Source: fijitimes
Teacher Sera Jale joins the Solomon Island dancers during entertainment at the Suva Methodist Primary School yesterday.
THE Vanuatu delegation is expected to present a traditional presentation of apology to the President Ratu Josefa Iloilo during Fiji Day celebrations on Monday.
Minister for Reconciliation Ratu Meli Saukuru said the delegation which came for the Melanesian Arts Festival had asked to present their isoro.
"In other words, the delegation will seek the forgiveness of the people of Fiji which will be presented to the Ratu Josefa," Ratu Meli said.
Late last night, reps from Vanuatu were in a meeting with officers from the Prime Ministers' Office.
Members of the delegation at the Vatuwaqa Primary School said they were aware of the ceremony. A member said discussions held last night were to confirm the ceremony.
"We do know about it so that is why they are in discussion to finalise the ceremony program," he said.
Meanwhile Papua New Guinea families living in Fiji took time out to help and visit with their fellow islanders who are in Fiji for the festival.
Rana Orapa, 33, a Papuan housewife living in Fiji said she was taking the time out to help her countrymen sell artefacts because most of the people she was helping were unable to communicate with potential buyers because of language barriers.
Ms Orapa is living in the country because her husband is employed by the South Pacific Community which is based in the country.
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