New Delhi/UNI: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the 12th World Hindi Conference, which concluded in Nadi on Friday, clearly reflects the strong cultural and historical ties between India and Fiji.

Addressing the valedictory function of the three-day conference held in Nadi, Fiji, the EAM conveyed special thanks to the Fiji government for the successful event.

The presence of Fijian President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad added to the grandeur of the ceremony, he said.

In tweets in Hindi, he posted: “Honored to participate in the valedictory function of 12th #विश्वहिन्दीसम्मेलन held in Fiji. Thank you for joining Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad ji.

“The 3-day conference clearly reflected the strong cultural and historical ties between Fiji and India.”

He said participants from 31 countries added to the grandeur of the event.

“The cultural and traditional characteristics of both the countries are the strong foundation of mutual respect and cooperation.

“Fiji and India as well as participants from 31 countries added to the grandeur of the event.”

“During the ceremony, more than 900 scholars and Hindi lovers from all over the world had discussions on various important aspects for the wide publicity of Hindi.

“Such events are also helping strengthen the expansion of other Indian languages,” he posted.

Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan, who presented the concluding remarks at the event, expressed hope that the results of the several seminars held during the conference would go a long way in enhancing the prestige of Hindi at the world level.

Distinguished scholars were also honored at the closing ceremony.