Fiji Facts, Capital City, Currency, Flag, Language, Landforms, Land Statistics, Largest Cities, Population, Symbols (conversion rates) One Fiji Dollar Ethnicity: Fijian 57.3% (predominantly Melanesian with a Polynesian admixture), Indian 37.6%, Rotuman 1.2%, other 3.9% (European, other Pacific Islanders, Chinese) GDP total: $3.792 billion (2010 est.) GDP per capita: $4,300 (2010 est.) Language: English (official), Fijian (official), Hindustani Largest Cities: (by population) Suva, Lautoka, Nadi, Lambasa, Ba Name: "Fiji" is derived from the name of the main island Viti Levu National Day: Second Monday of October Religion: Christian 64.5% (Methodist 34.6%, Roman Catholic 9.1%, Assembly of God 5.7%, Seventh Day Adventist 3.9%, Anglican 0.8%, other 10.4%), Hindu 27.9%, Muslim 6.3%, Sikh 0

.3%, other or unspecified 0.3%, none 0.7% Fijian Islands - definition of Fijian Islands by The Free Dictionary Fijian Islands - definition of Fijian Islands by The Free Dictionary Related to Fijian Islands: Vanua Levu Fiji Fi·ji (fē′jē) An island country of the southwest Pacific Ocean comprising about 320 islands.

Populated by Melanesian and later Polynesian groups, the islands were annexed by Great Britain in 1874 and became independent in 1970. Suva, on the island of Viti Levu, is the capital. Fiji (ˈfiːdʒiː; fiːˈdʒiː) n (Placename) an independent republic, consisting of 844 islands (chiefly Viti Levu and Vanua Levu) in the SW Pacific: a British colony (1874–1970); a member of the Commonwealth (1970–87 and from 1997); the large islands are of volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs; smaller ones are of coral. Official language: English. Religion: Christian and Hindu. Currency: dollar. Capital: Suva. Pop: 896 758 (2013 est).

Area: 18 272 sq km (7055 sq miles) n, adj Fiji - definition of Fiji by The Free Dictionary Fiji - definition of Fiji by The Free Dictionary Fi·ji (fē′jē) An island country of the southwest Pacific Ocean comprising about 320 islands. Populated by Melanesian and later Polynesian groups, the islands were annexed by Great Britain in 1874 and became independent in 1970. Suva, on the island of Viti Levu, is the capital. Fiji (ˈfiːdʒiː; fiːˈdʒiː) n (Placename) an independent republic, consisting of 844 islands (chiefly Viti Levu and Vanua Levu) in the SW Pacific: a British colony (1874–1970); a member of the Commonwealth (1970–87 and from 1997); the large islands are of volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs; smaller ones are of coral. Official language: English. Religion: Christian and Hindu. Currency: dollar. Capital: Suva.

Pop: 896 758 (2013 est). Area: 18 272 sq km (7055 sq miles) n, adj 1. (Languages) another word for Fijian 2. (Peoples) another word for Fijian Fi•ji (ˈfi dʒi) n. a republic consisting of an archipelago of some 332 islands in the S Pacific, N of New Zealand, composed of the Fiji Islands and a smaller group to the NW: formerly a British colony. 812,918; 7078 sq. mi. (18,333 sq. km). Cap.: Suva.

ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend: Fiji Islands , Fijis - a group of more than 800 islands (100 inhabited) in the southwestern Pacific; larger islands (Viti Levu and Vanua Levu) are of volcanic origin surrounded by coral reefs; smaller islands are coral Suva - the capital and largest city of Fiji (on Viti Levu island) Fijian - a native or inhabitant of Fiji Translations [ˈfiːdʒiː] N (also the Fiji Islands) → las Islas Fiji Fiji the Fiji Islands → les îles fpl Fidji Fiji [ˈfiːdʒiː] n the Fiji Islands → le isole fpl Figi Fiji Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us , add a link to this page, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content . Link to this page: View in context It was in the early days in Fiji, when John Starhurst arose in the mission house at Rewa Village and announced his intention of carrying the gospel throughout all Viti Levu.

This tooth was likewise the property of Ra Vatu; and in Fiji, when such a tooth goes forth, things usually happen. I have labored in Fiji for three years, and I have done it for no profit. View in context I have one somewhere that a Fiji belle once wore; I'll look it up," and, leaving Pokey to Jamie's care, Dr. Here's a gimlet, so you hold her, boys, while I get her dear little nose all ready," cried Charlie, whisking away the pillow as the other boys danced about the sofa in true Fiji style. Suva Map, Capital of Fiji Suva Map, Capital of Fiji Disclaimer Close Disclaimer : All efforts have been made to make this image accurate. However Compare Infobase Limited,its directors and employees do not own any responsibility for the correctness or authenticity of the same. About City : Suva is the capital of Fiji. It is the second most populated municipality of the country after Nasinu. It is both the political and the administrative center of Fiji. Besides, Suva is the largest cosmopolitan city in the South Pacific and has recently become an important regional center.

The history of Suva dates back to 1868, when 5,000 sq. km of land was granted to the Australian-based Polynesia Company by the United States in order to clear certain debts. The original intention was to establish a cotton farming industry, which however failed due to unsuitable climate. Subsequent to the annexation of the Fiji islands by Britain in 1874, the capital was shifted from Levuka to Suva three years later. Suva acquired municipal status in 1910 and was declared a city in 1952. The city hosted the South Pacific Games for the third time in 2003. Suva boasts of a milieu of cultures and ethnicities and is currently home to approximately 89,000 residents. English and Fijian are the official languages of the island. The capital city has a mixed population of Protestants, Hindus and Roman Catholics. Geography : Suva lies on a rugged peninsula situated in between Laucala Bay and Suva Harbor on the south-east coast of the island Viti Levu. It covers an area of 2,048 sq.

km, and is surrounded by mountains on both the north and the west that intercepts the southeast trade winds. The coast is lined with mangroves and the nearest beach in Suva is 25 km away at Pacific Harbor. How to Reach (Transport) : Suva can be reached either by the Nadi International Airport or the Nausori International Airport. These are served by several airlines like Air Pacific, Pacific Sun and Air Vanuato. Suva is located just 23 km from Nausori and can be reached by availing a taxi. Fiji Airways runs regular flights to and from Nadi. Once in Suva, the best public transport options are taxis and local buses as they are affordable and easily available. When to Visit : Suva experiences a tropical rainforest climate with heavy rainfall throughout the year, especially from November to May. The slightly cooler months from June to October are also comparatively drier. The ideal time to visit the capital city is during July-August when the fire-walking festival is held and the weather is suitable as well. Fairs and Festivals : Fiji has a rich tradition of cultural fairs and festivals that attract tourists from all over the world.

Vilavilairevo, or the fire-walking festival, held in July-August, takes place in the Mariamma Temple. Men walk over blazing pits of embers in a truly magnificent display of courage. The entire city gears up for this festival making colorful costumes and performing various ceremonies. The Hibiscus Festival is a much awaited event of the year held in August. Thousands of participants compete with each other for the Miss Hibiscus title. Music, dance, sports, food and local arts characterize this festival. The last Monday of May is observed as a national holiday in memory of the father of Modern Fiji, Ratu Sir Lala Sakuna. The week-long festival ends with a presidential speech on Fijian unity. The World Music Festival is held in Suva every year in June. Accomplished singers and bands from all over the world gather here to showcase their individual talents. Besides these unique traditional events, the large population of Hindus and Christians celebrate their respective religious festivals all year round. Points of Interest (Places to Visit) : The following are the unique sites in Suva that one must not miss out when visiting the capital of Fiji: The Fiji Museum in Thurston Gardens houses the most exclusive collection of Fijian artifacts.

It is also a research institute specializing in the preservation of Fiji's oral tradition and culture. The Roman Catholic Cathedral and the Holy Trinity Cathedral are two important landmarks from the historic past. The Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve is a 6 km stretch of land teeming with natural flora and fauna of the island. Tourists and locals come here to swim under the waterfalls. Suva has numerous parks, among which Apted Park at Suva Point is a popular spot for viewing sunrise and sunset. In addition to these, the Municipal Market and the Municipal Handicraft Centre must also be visited by every traveler to get a glimpse of true Fijian local life. Accommodation : Accommodation is easily available in Suva in the various hotels and apartments present there. Holiday Inn Suva, Navotal Suva Lami Bay and Tanoa Plaza Hotel are the most famous 4-star hotels that provide excellent services to their occupants. Apartments like Nanette's Accommodation, Suva Apartments and Colonial Lodge are available on rent for a longer stay in a peaceful surrounding. The Best Western Suva Motor Inn is a resort that offers world-class facilities.

Last Updated : January 22, 2014 Fijian Islands | Article about Fijian Islands by The Free Dictionary Fijian Islands | Article about Fijian Islands by The Free Dictionary Related to Fijian Islands: Vanua Levu Fiji (fē`jē) or Viti (vē`tē), officially Republic of Fiji, republic made up of a Melanesian island group (2005 est. pop. 893,000), c.7,000 sq mi (18,130 sq km), South Pacific. Suva Suva , city (1993 est. pop. 80,000), capital of Fiji, on the southeastern coast of Viti Levu island, S Pacific. It is a major shipping and commercial center of the S Pacific producing a variety of manufactures. ..... Click the link for more information. is the capital. Land Fiji comprises c.320 islands, of which some 105 are inhabited.

Viti Levu Viti Levu or Naviti Levu , volcanic island, 4,010 sq mi (10,386 sq km), S Pacific, largest and most important of the Fiji Islands. On Viti Levu are Suva, the capital and chief port of Fiji, and Lautoka, an important town and the center of the sugar industry. ..... Click the link for more information. , the largest, constitutes half the land area and is the seat of Suva. The other important islands are Vanua Levu Vanua Levu or Sandalwood Island, volcanic island, 2,137 sq mi (5,535 sq km), S Pacific, second largest of the Fiji Islands. Nasoro Levu, or Mt. Thurston (3,139 ft/960 m), is the highest peak. The Dreketi is the principal river. ..... Click the link for more information. (the second largest), Taveuni, Kadavu, Koro, Gau, and Ovalau. In the group's center is the Koro Sea, east of which is the Lau group.

The Yasawa and Mamanuca groups are west of Viti Levu. The larger islands are volcanic and mountainous; the highest peak, Mt. Victoria, or Tomaniivi (4,341 ft/1,323 m), is on Viti Levu, which has the longest river, the Rewa. Fiji's climate is warm and humid. There are dense tropical forests on the windward sides of the islands and grassy plains and clumps of casuarina and pandanus on the leeward sides; mangrove forests are abundant, and hot springs are common in the mountain regions. The chief towns are generally seaports: Suva and Lautoka on Viti Levu; and Levuka, on a small island E of Viti Levu. People Indigenous Fijians are mainly of Melanesian origin with Polynesian elements, which are much more pronounced in the eastern islands; they account for more than half the population. Indo-Fijians, who mainly came from the subcontinent from 1879 to 1916 as indentured workers for the British, make up not quite four tenths of the population and are engaged chiefly in the sugar industry and commerce.

In the mid-1960s Indo-Fijians constituted slightly more than half of Fiji's inhabitants; many left after the 1987 coup (see under History) and as a result of political and economic crises since then. There are also small groups of Europeans, Chinese, and Micronesians. Indigenous Fijians are mainly Christian; about three quarters of the Indo-Fijians are Hindu and one quarter are Muslim. The official languages are English and Fijian; Hindi is also spoken. Economy Fiji's fertile soil yields sugarcane, coconuts, cassava, rice, sweet potatoes, bananas, pineapples, and lumber. Cattle, pigs, horses, and goats are raised. Sugar, whose processing accounts for a third of Fiji's industrial production, is the main export. The industry has suffered since the late 1990s because of low world prices, drought, and inefficiencies, and the government is seeking to diversify the island's commercial agriculture. Tourism and mining are important to the economy, as are remittances from Fijians working abroad.

Sugar, clothing, gold, silver, timber, fish, molasses, copra, coconut oil, and farmed pearls are exported. Imports consist largely of manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, petroleum products, foodstuffs, and chemicals. Australia, Singapore, the United States, and New Zealand are the main trading partners. Government Fiji is governed under the constitution of 2013. The president, who is a largely ceremonial head of state, is elected by the parliament to a three-year term; the president may serve for two terms. The government is headed by the prime minister. The unicameral parliament has 50 members who are elected proportionally to four-year terms. Administratively, Fiji is divided into 14 provinces and the dependency of Rotuma. History Polynesians presumably arrived in the islands more than 3,000 years ago; they were largely conquered and absorbed by Melanesian invaders c.1500 B.C. The first Europeans to visit Fiji were the Dutch navigator Abel Tasman Tasman, Abel Janszoon , 1603?–1659, Dutch navigator.

In the service of the Dutch East India Company from c.1632 to 1653, he made several trading and exploring voyages in the Pacific and Indian oceans. ..... Click the link for more information. in 1643 and British Capt. James Cook Cook, James, 1728–79, English explorer and navigator. The son of a Yorkshire agricultural laborer, he had little formal education. After an apprenticeship to a firm of shipowners at Whitby, he joined (1755) the royal navy and surveyed the St. ..... Click the link for more information. in 1774. In the early 1800s the first European settlement was established at Levuka, which became an important whaling port in the mid-1800s. A Fijian national government, with a tribal chief as king, was established in Levuka in 1871, but in 1874, at the request of Fiji's tribal chiefs, Great Britain annexed the islands. The capital was moved to Suva in 1882. During World War II the islands were an important supply point.

In 1970, Fiji gained independence as a member of the Commonwealth with Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara Mara, Ratu Sir Kamisese, 1920–2004, Fijian political leader. A paramount chief of the Lau Islands, he was educated in Fiji, New Zealand, and England, founded (1960) the Alliance party, and helped negotiate Fiji's independence from Great Britain. ..... Click the link for more information. as prime minister. In 1987, Col. Sitiveni Rabuka led two coups that wrested control of the racially divided nation's government from the ethnic Indians. Fiji was declared a republic; it also was expelled (1987–97) from the Commonwealth. In 1990 a new constitution granted nonurban native Fijians a disproportionate say in the government. Two years later Rabuka became prime minister, and in 1994 Mara was appointed president.

The constitution was amended in 1997 to give nonethnic Fijians a larger voice, and in May, 1999, Labor party leader Mahendra Chaudhry was the first ethnic Indian to become prime minister of Fiji, replacing Rabuka. A May, 2000, coup attempt led by Fijian businessman George Speight took Chaudhry hostage and demanded an end to Indian participation in Fijian politics; the crisis led the army to seek Mara's resignation and briefly take power. The army appointed (July, 2000) an ethnic Fijian–dominated government headed by Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase; Ratu Josefa Iloilo became president. Speight, after releasing his hostages, demanded a strong influence in the new government but was arrested by the army, and his insurgency was quashed. In 2002 he pled guilty to treason and was sentenced to life in prison. Qarase's government was subsequently ruled illegal by the courts, and Ratu Tevita Momoedonu was appointed prime minister of a caretaker government in Mar., 2001.

New parliamentary elections in August–September resulted in a victory for the Fiji United party (SDL), which formed a Fiji-nationalist coalition government with the Conservative Alliance; Qarase again became prime minister. The post-coup period saw many Indo-Fijians forced off leased farms when ethnic Fijian landowners, who control roughly 90% of the land, did not renew leases. In July, 2003, Qarase's government was ruled unconstitutional because it did not include members of the opposition Labor party. In September the Labor party refused to join the government when Qarase excluded Chaudhry, and the situation remained unresolved until late in 2004 when Chaudhry decided to lead the opposition. Also in 2004, Ratu Jope Seniloli, the vice president, was convicted on charges stemming from his appointment as president by George Speight during the attempted coup in 2000; he subsequently resigned after serving a shortened sentence. A government proposal in mid-2005 to offer amnesty to persons involved in the coup sparked protests from the opposition and from the army, whose commander threatened to intervene if such a law was passed.

The Great Council of Chiefs, however, supported the proposal. Tensions between the government and army continued into 2006. The military chief, Commodore Voreqe "Frank" Bainimarama Bainimarama, Frank (Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama) 1954–, Fijian naval officer and government leader. He rose through the ranks of the Royal Fijian Navy, serving in South America, New Zealand, and the United States, and in 1984 assumed command of his first ship. ..... Click the link for more information. , was accused in the spring by Qarase's party of illegally campaigning against it, and later in the year Bainimarama called for Qarase's government to drop ethnically divisive legislation or resign. Meanwhile, President Iloilo was reelected in Mar., 2006. Qarase's coalition won the May parliamentary elections, and the Labor party subsequently agreed to participate in the multiparty cabinet, although Chaudhry did not accept a post.

In November Qarase agreed to drop the coup amnesty proposal, but relations between the government and military remained tense; the preceding month Qarase had attempted to replace Bainimarama as military chief, but the proposed replacement refused the post. The military ultimately overthrew the government in December, and Bainimarama initially assumed the post of interim president. The Commonwealth partially suspended Fiji in response (and fully suspended Fiji three years later). Opposition from the Council of Chiefs led Bainimarama to restore Iloilo to the presidency in Jan., 2007, but at the same time the president announced that he supported the commodore and Bainimarama became interim prime minister. In April the Bainimarama's government suspended the members of the Great Council of Chiefs because of the lack of cooperation with the government. The move followed the council's refusal to approve the government's choice for vice president. A "people's charter," intended by Bainimarama to complement the constitution and to unify Fiji and end its racially divisive politics, was completed in Aug., 2008, and approved by the president in December.

In Apr., 2009, after the courts declared Bainimarama's government illegal, he resigned as prime minister. President Iloilo subsequently abrograted the constitution, dismissed the judiciary, appointed himself head of state "under a new legal order," and then appointed Bainimarama interim prime minister; judges aligned with the government were appointed in May. In July, 2009, Bainimarama announced that work on a new constitution would begin in 2012 and democratic elections would be held two years later. A draft constitution was completed by a constitutional commission by the end of 2012, but copies of the draft that were disseminated were confiscated by the government, and the government announced that it would revise the draft. Meanwhile, Iloilo resigned as president for health reasons in July, 2009. Vice President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau became acting president and then, in Nov., 2009, president. By early 2010, Bainimarama's government was taking increasingly repressive moves against its critics, including tight restrictions on the media.

In Mar., 2010, a cyclone caused significant damage in N Fiji. Bainimarama abolished the Great Council of Chiefs in Mar., 2012. The council, which had been established under British rule in 1875, had elected the president and consulted in the appointment of senators. Former prime minister Qarase was convicted of corruption in July, 2012; the charges related a company directorship he held in the 1990s. In Sept., 2013, a new constitution was finally adopted. Bainimarama resigned as Fiji's military chief in Mar., 2014, but he remained the country's interim prime minister. Former prime minister Chaudhry was convicted in Apr., 2014, of violating Fiji's Exchange Control Act. Bainimarama's Fiji First party handily won the Sept., 2014, parliamentary elections, and he became prime minister. Following the election, Fiji's suspension from the Commonwealth was lifted. In 2015 Jioje Konrote was elected Fiji's president.

Many parts of the country suffered extensive destruction from a severe tropical cyclone (hurricane) in Feb., 2016. Fiji a state in Oceania, in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Part of the British Commonwealth. Area, 18,300 sq km. Population, 580,000 (1975). The capital is Suva. The country, which occupies the Fiji Islands and also includes the island of Rotuma, located 380 km from the Fiji Islands, is divided into four administrative zones. Constitution and government. Fiji is a constitutional monarchy. The present constitution was adopted in 1970. The head of state is the British monarch, represented by an appointed governor-general. The highest legislative body is a parliament, which includes the British monarch and two chambers. The lower chamber is the House of Representatives, elected for five-year terms and consisting of 52 members—22 Fijians, 22 Indians, and eight representatives from the European and Chinese communities; some are elected on national and some on communal rolls.

The upper chamber is the Senate, comprising 22 members, appointed for six-year terms; one-half of the Senate is reappointed every three years. All citizens 21 years of age or older are eligible to vote. Executive authority is vested in the Council of Ministers, headed by a prime minister appointed by the governor-general. The Fijian Administration oversees the provinces. It consists of elected provincial councils and the Great Council of Chiefs, presided over by the minister for Fijian affairs and rural development . The Council of Chiefs is an advisory body, consisting of the 22 Fijian members of the House of Representatives, 30 representatives chosen by the provincial councils, and 15 members appointed by the minister for Fijian affairs and rural development. The judicial system is headed by the Supreme Court and includes an appellate court and lower courts. Natural features. The Fiji archipelago comprises more than 300 islands, which form the eastern edge of Melanesia. The largest islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Almost all the islands are surrounded by coral reefs and have numerous inlets.

The basement of the islands is composed of granites, gneisses, and other ancient crystalline rocks, overlain in places by Tertiary sandstones and a thick stratum of igneous rocks, namely, basalts and andesites. The relief of the large islands is dominated by plateaus, which are dissected by mountain ridges with elevations of more than 1,000 m; the highest elevation is 1,322 m, on Viti Levu. Narrow aggradational plains stretch along the coasts. The largest rivers are the Rewa (navigable for 100 km), Wainimbuka, Mba, and Singatoka, all located on Viti Levu. The climate is tropical oceanic and wet, with little seasonal variation in temperature, which averages approximately 3°C. Wind direction and topography account for substantial differences in the distribution of precipitation (1,500–4,000 mm annually) and in the types of vegetation found in the windward and leeward regions. The red-earth soils, products of the weathering of volcanic rocks, are fertile.

The southeastern windward slopes are covered with tropical rain forests of valuable trees, including sandalwood, teak, mahogany, and several coniferous species, such as Podocarpus. There are several species of palm (coconut, sago), as well as breadfruit trees, sweet potato vines, and rubber plants. In some areas, forests have been cut down and their place taken by savanna. Savanna predominates in the drier leeward regions. The fauna is represented essentially by the same species as are found in western Oceania (see OCEANIA ). Population. The largest ethnic groups in Fiji are Indians (approximately 290,000; 1974, estimate) and Fijians (approximately 225,000, including about 10,000 of mixed descent). The rest of the population consists of Rotumans, who live on the island of Rotuma, and other Oceanic peoples, the Chinese, and the English and other Europeans. English is the official language. More than one-half of the population is Christian (Methodist and other denominations), about 40 percent are Hindu, and the rest profess Islam and other religions.

The Gregorian calendar is used. Between 1971 and 1975 the population increased at an average annual rate of 2.2 percent. The economically active population numbers 148,000 people (1970), of which 49 percent are employed in agriculture. The average pouplation density is 32 persons per sq km (1975). The most densely populated islands are Viti Levu, with three-quarters of the total population, and Vanua Levu. In 1966, 33 percent of the population was urban. The principal cities are Suva (63,200 in 1971) and Lautoka, both on Viti Levu, Lambasa (Vanua Levu), Nausori (Viti Levu), and Levuka (Ovalau). Historical survey. The Fiji Islands were discovered by the Dutch navigator A. Tasman in 1643 and were visited in 1774 by the English explorer J. Cook. By the time the Europeans came, the primitive communal system of the local population was already in decline.

The first British missionaries arrived in 1835. In 1874, Fiji became a British colony. On Oct. 10, 1970, it was proclaimed an independent state within the British Commonwealth and that same year became a member of the United Nations. In 1975, Fiji signed a convention by which it became an associate member of the European Economic Community (Common Market). Diplomatic relations between Fiji and the USSR were established in 1974. The ruling Alliance Party, founded in 1966, primarily represents the Fijians and is also supported by the Europeans. The opposition National Federation Party, founded in 1963, primarily represents the Indians. There is also the Nationalist Party (founded 1974). Fiji has trade unions, some of which are united under the Fiji Trades Union Congress. Economic geography. Fiji is an agrarian country in which foreign, chiefly Australian, capital plays a significant role. Japanese and American capital are beginning to have an impact.

Agriculture accounts (1973) for 21 percent of the gross national product, industry for 13.7 percent, construction for 7.5 percent, trade for 19 percent, transportation for 6.3 percent, and other sectors for 32.5 percent. An economic development plan for 1976–80 has been carried out. The basis of the economy is land cultivation. The Fijians carry on a seminatural economy, in which the chief crop is the coconut, on communal farms which account for 87 percent of agricultural lands. Cash crops, chiefly sugarcane, are raised by Indian farmers (15,000 farms in 1975), who rent communal lands. Agricultural lands occupy 11.5 percent of the country’s territory; approximately 8 percent is under cultivation or sown with perennial crops. The chief export crops are (1975) sugarcane, coconuts, and bananas.

In 1975 sugarcane occupied 46,000 hectares (ha), which yielded a harvest of 2.3 million tons; 285,000 tons of raw sugar were produced, of which 250,000 tons were exported. Coconut cultivation yielded 281,000 tons of coconuts and 25,000 tons of copra; 1,100 tons of copra and 14,000 tons of coconut oil were exported. Bananas occupied 4,000 ha, which yielded 5,000 tons. Other export crops include cacao and pineapples. Crops raised for local consumption include grains (rice and corn), sorghum, taro, manioc, sweet potatoes, and yams. Livestock and poultry raising are being developed. In 1975 the livestock population numbered 173,000 head of cattle, 34,000 horses, 55,000 goats, 31,000 pigs, and 575,000 fowl. Commercial fishing is being established.

Agriculture and fishing do not satisfy the demands of the population for food, which must be imported. Industry is represented by enterprises for the primary processing of agricultural produce, including sugar refineries (sugar production is controlled by a state sugar corporation), rice-processing plants, vegetable-oil mills, meat-packing plants, fruit-juice factories, fruit canneries, and tea and tobacco factories. Fiji also has sawmills and cement factories. Industrial output in 1974 included 442 million cigarettes, 85,000 tons of cement, 3,100 tons of meat, and 900 tons of butter. Mining yielded 2.1 tons of gold, 840 kg of silver, and manganese ore. Fiji has (1973) 2,700 km of automobile roads, of which 278 km were hard-surfaced, and 644 km of narrow-gauge railroad. There are (1973) 16,300 automobiles and 6,300 trucks.

In 1973 the freight turnover of the seaports, chiefly Suva, Lautoka, and Levuka, was 1.2 million tons. An international airport is located in Nandi. In 1975 exports totaled Fijian $142.2 million, and imports totaled Fijian $21.8 million. In 1974 principal exports included raw sugar, which accounted for 54.3 percent of all exports, coconut oil and copra, which accounted for 8.7 percent, and gold, which accounted for 7 percent. Imports included food products, which accounted for 19.2 percent of all imports, fuel, which accounted for 9 percent, and machinery and equipment, which accounted for 22 percent; other manufactured articles accounted for 35.8 percent.

Fiji’s chief trading partners are (1974) Australia, which accounted for 11.4 percent of Fiji’s total exports and 30.3 percent of total imports, New Zealand (6.3 and 11.2 percent, respectively), Great Britain (38.3 and 9.9 percent), Japan (1.7 and 17.9 percent), and the USA (31.5 and 4.5 percent). Tourism is an important source of income. In 1974, 181,000 foreign tourists visited the country, bringing in an income of Fijian $60.6 million. The monetary unit is the Fijian dollar. As of December 1976, Fijian $0,941 equaled US $1. V. P. N IKOLAEV Education and cultural institutions. In 1946, 35.6 percent of Fiji’s population was illiterate. Since independence was proclaimed in 1970, measures have been taken to institute compulsory, free education for all children.

The eight-year primary school is compulsory for all children between the ages of six and 14; graduates may then enter a six-year secondary school (two years plus four years). Vocational training is provided by vocational and technical schools, which accept graduates of the primary schools. Instruction is in English. In the 1972–73 school year, more than 130,400 pupils were enrolled in primary schools; 21,100 students were attending secondary schools, and 1,300 were attending vocational and technical schools. Three schools of teacher education, with more than 400 students, train teachers for the primary schools. The university in Suva, which was founded in 1968 and had an enrollment of more than 1,500 students in the 1975–76 academic year, is a regional university serving the countries of the South Pacific. It has schools of education, natural resources, and social and economic development.

Education below the university level is provided by a technological institute in Samabula (founded 1964), a three-year agricultural college in Nausori (founded 1954), and a medical school in Suva (founded 1886). Cultural institutions in Suva include the university library (with more than 70,000 volumes), the Suva City Library (more than 39,000 volumes), the National Archives of Fiji (founded 1954), and the Fiji Museum (founded 1906). Fiji has one daily newspaper, the Fiji Times, published in English, and several other periodical publications. Radio broadcasting is under the jurisdiction of the government radio broadcasting commission. [27–989–1 ] Fiji Fiji Accommodation & Fiji Islands Accommodation Deals Denarau Accommodation Denarau Island is a designer development of rivers and tropical gardens approximately 20 minutes by car south of Nadi. Home to one of the best golf courses in the world, it is also a hub of cruise operators which depart Denarau Marina.

Denarau's most popular waterfront accommodation includes Westin Denarau, Radisson Fiji Denarau Island and Sheraton Denarau Villas. The Golf Terrace Apartments are adjacent to the Marina and are serviced regularly by a shuttle bus. Coral Coast Accommodation Featuring the second largest single reef in the world, Fiji's Coral Coast stretches along Viti Levu's southern shores and is a beautiful holiday destination. Seashell@Momi is a huge drawcard for diving and surfing enthusiasts at a budget price. Shangri-La Fijian Resort, the Warwick, Outrigger on the Lagoon and the Naviti offer family friendly accommodation. Suva Accommodation As Fiji's largest city, and therefore the capital, Suva is situated on Viti Levu's southeast coast. Some of the most popular ways to spend your time in Suva include shopping, sightseeing and sampling the local produce at the Suva markets. The Holiday Inn Suva is located nearby and is recommended for its superior service and facilities at an affordable price. Located in the central business district of Fiji, it is also ideal for guests staying on business and pleasure.

North Coast Accommodation A breathtaking area with access to modern conveniences but unspoilt by commercialism and development, the accommodation along Fiji's north coast is many and varied. The First Landing Resort is located on Vuda Point and features easy access to the Mamanuca Island groups. Rakiraki sits at the very north of Viti Levu and is home to Rakiraki Hotel, Volivoli Beach and the Wananavu Beach Resort. All offer fantastic diving opportunities and unprecedented access to the stunning beaches. Nadi Accommodation Traditional landscapes meet tourist mecca in Nadi with cane fields as far as the eye can see but a kilometre of restaurants, cafes and duty free shopping. While not a holiday accommodation area, its proximity to the airport means visitors often require a couple of night's stopover. The Novotel Nadi, Tanoa International Hotel and Tokatoka Resort Hotel are close to the airport and feature excellent facilities ensuring your first few hours in Fiji are a great start to your holiday. Pacific Harbour Accommodation Ideally located to make the most of Fiji's holiday destinations, Pacific Harbour is just 40 minutes west of Suva and 2 hours' south east of Nadi.

Pacific Harbour is a stunning stretch of coastline renowned as Fiji's adventure capital. Whether land or water based activities, Pacific Harbour has something for everyone. Play at the 18 hole championship golf course, try your hand at game fishing, explore the beautiful Beqa Reef or take a shark dive along the coast and around Beqa Island. Fiji Islands Accommodation Mamanuca Islands Accommodation Renowned for the world's best scuba diving, the Mamanuca Islands rest just off Viti Levu's west coast. They have much to offer in the way of tours, experiences and accommodation no matter your taste or budget. Treasure Island and Malolo Island Resort are ideal for families. Matamanoa Island Resort and Tokoriki Island Resort are lovely romantic escapes with that special someone but for absolute luxury, Vomo Island Resort and Likuliku Lagoon Resort are what you're looking for. The Yasawas Accommodation Made up of 6 main islands and a number of small islets, the Yasawa Island group is north of the Mamanucas. One of Fiji's most unspoilt and traditional regions, the islands' feature mountainous terrain and were formed by ancient volcanic activity.

The Yasawa's have beautiful bays, impressive cliff faces, private coves, secluded beaches and abundant reefs. Yasawa Island Resort is luxury accommodation at its best, offering exclusive access to your own private tropical oasis. Vanua Levu Accommodation The other large island of Fiji, Vanua Levu is a lush oasis of soaring mountains, former copra plantations and a large calm bay the waters are teeming with marine life. Often referred to as Fiji's best kept secret, Savusavu is a natural paradise nestled in the island of Vanua Levu and is the island's hub of activity, adventure and accommodation. First established to be a port for ships sailing Fiji's north eastern regions, it is now a picturesque harbour. Taveuni Island Accommodation Affectionately known as Fiji's 'Garden Island', Taveuni Island is covered in lush green vegetation and swaying coconut palms. The third largest of Fiji's islands it is renowned for its fantastic diving and lush tropical rainforest. Rising to its highest point at the Uluiqalau mountain range, Taveuni Island features mostly private luxury resorts although there is also a number of relaxing, more low key accommodation available as well.

Kadavu Island Accommodation South of Fiji's capital, Suva, Kadavu Island is the fourth largest island of Fiji and is linked by the airports at both Nausori and Nadi. The island is best known for its amazing diving and as the home of the Astrolabe Reef. Matava - The Astrolabe Hideaway is the most popular accommodation on the island and is an authentic eco resort offering affordable accommodation with a touch of Fijian tradition. Fiji Facts, Facts about Fiji Know Facts about World Countries Afghanistan Facts Where is Fiji ? Fiji is an island nation in Melanesia in the South Pacific Ocean. Its closet neighbors are Vanuatu to the west, France's New Caledonia to the southwest, New Zealand's Kermadec to the southeast, Tonga to the east, the Samoas, France's Wallis and Futuna to the northeast, and Tuvalu to the north. It has been inhabited since second millennium BC. The main island of the republic is named Viti Levu. The estimated population of the country is 849,000; the total area is 7,056 square miles. What is the capital of Fiji?

Suva is the capital of Fiji and is located on the southeast coast of the island of Viti Levu. Almost half of the population resides in Suva. It has an area of 790.5 square miles and an estimated population of 85,691. What is the currency of Fiji? The Fijian dollar is the currency of Fiji. Its ISO 4217 code is FJD. In 1969 Fijian pound was replaced by the Fijian dollar at the rate of 1 pound = 2 dollars. Which is the largest city of Fiji? Suva is the largest city of Fiji. It is Fiji's political and administrative capital, with most banks having their Pacific headquarters here. The most notable landmark of the capital is the Suva City Library, built in 1909. Fiji Museum is another famous landmark. It was founded in 1904 and was shifted to its present location in 1954. The museum has the most expensive collection of Fijian artifacts in the world. What is the official language of Fiji?

The 1997, the constitution established Fijian as an official language, although it is not the "national language" of the country. Fijian is an Austronesian language of the Malayo-Polynesian family. Hindustani and English are the two other official languages. What is the religion of Fiji? Majority of the population in Fiji is Christian. Christians constitute about 64.5% of the population. The largest Christian denomination is the Methodist Church of Fiji and Rotuma. 27.9% of the population is Hindu. They belong mostly to the Sanatan sect. Muslim, Sikh constitute less than 10% of the population. What is the literacy rate of Fiji? Fiji has a high literacy rate of 93%. Education is compulsory and free till the age of 16. Who is the political leader of Fiji? Since independence, Fiji has seen four major coups in 1987, 2000 and 2006. The twin-coups of 1987 resulted in the overthrow of the elected government of Fijian Prime Minister Timoci Bavadra.

The first coup took place on May 14, 1987 and the second coup on September 28. The second coup ended the Fijian monarchy and was soon followed by the proclamation of the republic. Both the coups were led by Lieutenant Colonel Sitiveni Rabuka. The coup of 2000 overthrew the elected government. The then Prime Minister Chaudhry and other members of the parliament were taken hostage by gunmen. The 2006 coup occurred partly because of the continuation of the pressure building since the unrest of the 2000 Fijian coup. No significant violence or protest occurred during this coup. Brigadier-General Ratu Epeli Nailatikau is the current president of Fiji. Commodore Josaia Voreque Bainimarama is the acting prime minister of Fiji. When is the National Day of Fiji celebrated? The National Day of Fiji is celebrated on October 10, 1970. The British granted Fiji independence on this day. The democratic process was interrupted by two coups in 1987.

The second coup ended the Fijian monarchy and it became a republic on September 28, 1987. What is the economy of Fiji like? Fiji experienced a period of rapid growth in 1960s and 1970s, but stagnated in the 1980s. Urbanization and expansion in service sector have contributed to the GDP growth. Sugar export and the tourism industry are major sources of foreign exchange. The estimated GDP of the country is 3.131 billion dollars.

Question: What is the capital and largest city of the Fijian Islands?
Answer: SUVA