Tuvalu has begun celebrating its 32nd year of Independence Day today (Oct 1) with a series of events to mark the occasion."
Known as the Ellice Islands when it was ruled by Britain , Tuvalu gained its independence in 1978.
The Tuvalu High Commission in Fiji's first secretary, Sunema Simati, says independence day celebrations hold great significance for Tuvaluans everywhere in the world.
"We just have the dawn celebrations, collaborative celebrations and will continue celebrations on Saturday and Sunday, with dancing, feasting, a church service on Sunday and team competitions.
Sunema Simati.
The United States Secretary Hilary Clinton has also offered congratulations to Tuvaluans on gaining independence given its Treaty of Friendship with Tuvalu.
