Remarks by H.E. Ambassador Huang Yong at the

                                  Asian Night of 2013 Hibiscus Festival

                                          (19 August 2013, Suva)

Distinguished Mr. Hirdesh Prasad, Chairman of the Hibiscus Event Group,

Distinguished guests,

Suva citizens,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Bula Vinaka and very good evening! 

It is a great pleasure for me to join all of you tonight to celebrate the Asian Night of the 2013 Hibiscus Festival. This is my third Hibiscus Festival in Fiji. And each time I was overwhelmed in the ocean of flowers, colours, joys and hospitality.

 As it is known to all, Hibiscus Festival has been celebrated for fifty seven years in Fiji. The theme of this year is “Pacific Wellness: Treasure Life, Choose Health”. It resonates with Fijian people’s longing for a better life and the nation’s aspiration for a better Fiji. 

Tonight is an Asian Night. We will all have a heart beat experience of the unique cultures of Asia and Pacific through the fantastic performances of the Fijian and Chinese artists. The Asian and Pacific cultures share the common philosophy of inclusiveness, modesty, harmony and respect for diversity. Hibiscus Festival is no stranger to China, we have sent several artist groups to perform at the event, a showcase of the long standing of friendship and exchanges between the people of China and Fiji. 

Distinguished guests,

Suva citizens,

Ladies and gentlemen,

 I believe the 2013 Hibiscus Festival shall be remembered for its wholesome theme as well as its Asian Pacific flavor.

I wish you all a wonderful night!

Vinaka vakalevu!