India and Fiji to deepen cooperation in defence and security
India and Fiji have taken a major step in enhancing their bilateral ties through new agreements. The talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka focused on strengthening defence, healthcare, climate action and cultural cooperation.
In a joint press briefing with the Fijian PM, Prime Minister Modi said, “We have decided to strengthen mutual cooperation in the defence and security sector. An action plan has been prepared for this.
To empower Fiji’s maritime security, India will provide cooperation in training and equipment. India and Fiji are ready to share our experience in the fields of cybersecurity and data protection. We agree that terrorism is a huge challenge for all of humanity.”
The talks concluded with the signing of seven pacts across diverse areas. India will assist Fiji in healthcare infrastructure by constructing a 100-bed super speciality hospital in Suva. Additional support includes dialysis units, sea ambulances and Jan Aushadhi centres to ensure affordable medicines. A Jaipur foot camp will also be organised to extend medical relief.
PM Modi highlighted that India and Fiji are united in promoting the values of the Global South. He recalled the launch of the Forum for India Pacific Island Cooperation (FIPIC) in 2014, which has since broadened India’s engagement with Pacific island nations. With the visit of Prime Minister Rabuka, a new chapter in India-Fiji relations is being added.