Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Fijian counterpart, Sitiveni Rabuka, have signed a comprehensive action plan to strengthen defence cooperation. The leaders met in New Delhi and pledged to work for a peaceful Indo-Pacific region. Both nations aim to deepen their relations, with India providing training and equipment to support Fiji ‘s maritime security. This comes as India seeks stronger ties in the Pacific amid China’s growing influence.
During their meeting, PM Modi noted that India and Fiji are “oceans apart, but our aspirations sail in the same boat.” He recalled his 2014 visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 33 years, which initiated the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). This recent Fiji PM visit to India, Modi said, “adds a new chapter to our mutual relations.”
The two leaders signed seven agreements on various sectors. These agreements cover:
- Medicine
- Skill development
- Trade
- Capacity building
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They also issued a joint statement. It highlighted “the growing momentum in bilateral defence ties.” Both leaders stressed the importance of a “free, open, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.” They also committed to stepping up cooperation against terrorism and rejecting “double standards” on the issue. This comes after the two leaders condemned the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack.
To further solidify their partnership, India will create a new defence attache post in its high commission in Fiji. Furthermore, India will gift Fiji 12 agricultural drones and two mobile soil testing laboratories. This collaboration shows a commitment to a shared future and a stronger partnership.
