World
1 NEWS | Sky

‘Vinaka vaka levu’ - Prince Harry thanks Fijians in their language before unveiling statue commemorating Fijian soldier

October 25, 2018

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex unveiled a memorial statue for Sergeant Talaiasi Labalaba, a British Fijian soldier killed in action, at Nadi Airport.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have unveiled a statue commemorating Sergeant Talaiasi Labalaba at Nadi Airport, one of their final duties in Fiji before departing for Tonga.

Prior to the unveiling, Prince Harry thanked the people of Fiji for the warm welcome during their stay in a short speech in which he said hello and thanks – vinaka vaka levu – in Fijian.

Sgt Labalaba was a British-Fijian soldier who was killed in the Battle of Mirbat in 1972. He was also posthumously awarded the President's War Cross.

The couple will be welcomed by Princess Angelika Latufuipeka when they fly into Fua'amotu airport in Tonga before an official welcome at Consular House.

The Duke and Duchess will also have a private audience with His Majesty King Tupou VI and Queen Nanasipau'u before the reception and dinner.

SHARE ME

More Stories