New Delhi: India and Fiji have solidified an action plan aimed at enhancing defence cooperation and jointly promoting a peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific. This agreement was reached during discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, who is on a three-day visit to India to strengthen bilateral relations across various sectors, including maritime security, trade, health, digital technology, and capacity building.
Despite the geographical distance, Modi emphasized that “our aspirations sail in the same boat,” highlighting the shared goals of both nations. The talks resulted in the signing of seven agreements focused on cooperation in medicine, skill development, trade, and capacity building.
Modi announced that India is committed to enhancing Fiji’s maritime security through training and equipment support. He also expressed readiness to share expertise in cyber security and data protection, underscoring the trust and respect that form the foundation of India-Fiji relations. Modi characterized the partnership as a “bridge across the seas” from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, viewing Fiji as a central hub for India’s engagement with Pacific island nations.
Both leaders reiterated their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Rabuka stated that Fiji stands to gain significantly from its relationship with India, emphasizing the mutual desire to promote peace and stability in the region. They also acknowledged terrorism as a significant global challenge, expressing gratitude for Fiji’s cooperation in combating it and condemning the recent Pahalgam terrorist attack.
The leaders committed to a “zero tolerance” approach to terrorism and rejected any double standards in addressing the issue. Modi articulated India’s vision for the Global South, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect for the independence and identity of developing nations.
To bolster defence cooperation, several initiatives were announced, including a planned port call by an Indian naval ship to Fiji, the establishment of a defence attaché position in Suva, and the donation of two sea ambulances to Fiji’s military. Additionally, India will set up a 100-bed super-specialty hospital in Suva and provide 12 agricultural drones along with two mobile soil testing laboratories.
Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South) in the external affairs ministry, described Fiji as a “valued partner” in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on enhancing its maritime capabilities through capacity building and training. A joint statement from the leaders highlighted the increasing momentum in bilateral defence ties and the importance of shared interests in regional peace and stability.
The leaders also called for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including expanding the UN Security Council to reflect current geopolitical realities. Fiji reaffirmed its support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council and its candidacy for non-permanent membership for the term 2028-29.
The commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation was reiterated as a vital step in addressing global challenges, with both nations agreeing to collaborate on issues of common concern to the Global South. PM Rabuka praised India’s leadership in organizing the Voice of Global South Summits, recognizing them as essential platforms for discussing shared challenges and developmental priorities among developing countries.
