Strengthening India-Fiji Bilateral Relations
India and Fiji have announced an action plan to bolster defence and security cooperation. This plan includes India's assistance to Fiji in securing its exclusive economic zone.
Key Agreements and Initiatives
- Prime Ministers signed nine agreements and announced 17 initiatives to enhance relations, especially in defence and maritime sectors.
- This cooperation is significant amid China's strategic expansion in the Pacific region.
Historical Context and Current Visit
Sitiveni Rabuka, on a three-day visit to India, is serving as Fiji's PM for the second time, having previously held the position from 1992 to 1997.
- Rabuka led two military coups in 1987 to assert ethnic Fijian supremacy, for which he later apologized in 2006.
- Fijian-Indians' contributions to Fiji's growth and stability were acknowledged by Rabuka during the visit.
Partnership and Initiatives
- Modi highlighted the strengthening partnership with Fiji, announcing support for Fiji's maritime and cyber security, as well as data protection.
- Fiji is seen as a hub for India’s cooperation with Pacific Island nations, supporting a free, open, inclusive, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
- Fiji's association with India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative was welcomed.
Joint Working Group on Defence
The first meeting was recently held, focusing on capacity building in Fijian military forces.
Health, Culture, and Economic Initiatives
- India plans to build and operate a super-specialty hospital in Fiji, benefiting the entire Pacific region.
- There is also support for training Fijian Pundits in India and access to Indian ghee in Fijian markets.
Regional Importance of Fiji
Fiji is a significant regional hub in the Pacific, with crucial air and shipping links to other countries. It plays a vital role in the Pacific Island Forum and other regional bodies.
