Rinesh Sharma Takes a Paws-and-Reflect Moment with Miya During U.S. Leadership Visit

While attending the prestigious Open World program in the United States, Fijian Member of Parliament Rinesh Sharma took a lighthearted detour from a day filled with high-level engagements to bond with an unexpected American host—Miya, a charming pup he encountered during site visits.

Sharma is one of four Members of Parliament selected to represent Fiji in the U.S.-hosted program, alongside Assistant Minister for Justice Ratu Josaia Niudamu, Assistant Minister for Education Iliesa Vanawalu, and MP Shalen Kumar. The delegation is part of a professional exchange exploring American federalism, civic engagement, and leadership, including meetings with members of the U.S. Congress.

Despite the packed schedule, Sharma made time for a playful moment with Miya, capturing hearts online with a viral photo of him crouching in a suit, joyfully engaging with the relaxed dog in a store setting. His social media caption read: “Ending our day from the conference and site visitations with Miya,” complete with dog emojis.

U.S. Ambassador to Fiji, Marie Damour, met with the group prior to their departure and wished them success on their journey—an initiative that marks another milestone in the enduring partnership between Fiji and the United States.

The Open World program continues to foster mutual understanding and people-to-people ties. And as Sharma’s visit with Miya shows, diplomacy sometimes comes with a dose of canine charm.