Nauru welcomes 34 new citizens

Nauru recently conducted its second citizenship ceremony welcoming 34 individuals to the Nauruan family.

The oath ceremony was presided over by Judge Jane Crulci and certificates conferred by President Baron Waqa.

President Waqa said welcomed the new citizens saying they add to the diverse ethnicity of what makes Nauruans.

He said immigrants are a special breed of people who have unique skills, attitudes and visions that can transform a country.

“They bring with them opportunities, not only for themselves but for others as well - for today and for tomorrow. They can also inspire to change others for the better. Immigrants who have lived among us for many generations have done much for Nauru’s development. “I trust that our new citizens today will be just as good in contributing towards Nauru’s development.

The Minister for Justice David Adeang is tasked with assessing applications for Nauruan citizenship.

Adeang urged the new citizens to partner together to make Nauru stronger and more resilient.

“As Minister for Multicultural Affairs, I look forward to seeing you exercise your rights responsibly as a Nauruan citizen to participate in our community, integrate and learn our lifestyle, culture and tradition and share yours with us. “You come from different countries and each of you adds another thread to our national tapestry, wonderful in its array as we now have a common nationality. Our history is your history, and the narrative of your life becomes a part of our history too,” he said.

Nine of the 34 recipients were unable to attend the ceremony however their certificates collected by relatives on their behalf.