The Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama was pleased to see Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) partnering with the government in celebrating Fiji’s 50th year of independence.
While addressing during the Courts Inter District Championship (IDC) official opening ceremony, Bainimarama said it was wonderful to see our footballers back playing in earnest.
“Even if we can’t have the Stadium full yet, we are lucky to be playing these games at all. Most places in the world, sports are not safe to play due to COVID-19, and fans are stuck at home watching replays and old highlights. But not in Fiji,” he said.
“Here we are COVID-Contained, our people have their health, and we can safely welcome the Courts IDC Tournament alongside the celebrations of our 50th Anniversary of Independence as a nation.
“I’m proud to see every team competing as our FIJI50 logo stitched to their jerseys, and I would like to thank the Fiji Football Association for partnering with us to show our unity and pride as a nation as we mark Fiji’s 50th Birthday.”
The Prime Minister said Fiji has many distinctions, and the IDC is one of them.
“It is among the longest-running annual soccer tournaments in the world. We have held this Tournament every year since 1938—that’s 82 years, and we should be very proud.
“Thank you to the Fiji Football Association, the Officials and Management at the district level who work so hard to give these players the chance to play, as well as our sponsors, coaches, and the fans who have made this year’s IDC Tournament possible.”
