Source: Fiji Times

http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=11449

On November 11, 2004 the Fiji Times reported, "Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase is calling on the nation to join with Hindu citizens in the Diwali celebrations tomorrow. He said it would be a wonderful opportunity for communities to move closer together, learn from one another and gain a better understanding of our different ways and beliefs... 'We all love a celebration, no matter our race or creed and the more people we can get to share our joy and excitement with us, the better we like it, especially, I suspect, when our celebration brings happiness to people from outside our culture.' Mr Qarase said it was important for Fiji's harmonious progress that everyone mingle and learn to be at ease with one another."