New Delhi: In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday announced that India and Fiji have agreed to deepen their cooperation in the fields of defence and security. The announcement came after extensive talks with Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, who is currently on an official visit to India
Joint Press Conference Highlights Action Plan
Speaking at a joint press conference alongside PM Rabuka, Modi said that both nations have prepared a detailed action plan to advance this strategic partnership. He emphasized that the plan will focus on enhancing collaboration in defence training, technology sharing, maritime security, and counter-terrorism efforts.
“This marks a new chapter in India-Fiji relations,” PM Modi said, adding that the partnership will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also contribute to regional peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific
Strengthening Defence and Security Cooperation
The discussions highlighted the growing importance of mutual security concerns in an evolving geopolitical landscape. Both leaders agreed to share expertise in defence technologies, conduct joint military exercises, and facilitate training programs for security personnel.
PM Modi noted that India has long supported Fiji in modernizing its defence infrastructure and providing capacity-building assistance, which now will be further enhanced under the new action plan. The cooperation is expected to include naval collaborations, intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and cyber-security initiatives.
Broader Bilateral Engagements
In addition to defence and security, the leaders discussed trade, investment, education, and climate change cooperation. Fiji’s PM Rabuka praised India’s ongoing support in sectors like healthcare, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure. He expressed optimism that the enhanced partnership will create mutual benefits for both nations.
“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to peace, stability, and development in the region,” Rabuka said. He also lauded India’s assistance in COVID-19 relief, vaccine supply, and capacity-building programs, calling it a cornerstone of bilateral friendship.
Strategic Importance of the India-Fiji Partnership
Experts note that India’s engagement with Fiji is part of its broader Indo-Pacific strategy, strengthening ties with island nations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The defence and security collaboration aims to ensure maritime security, counter illicit activities, and promote regional stability.
The new action plan is expected to formalize joint exercises, training schedules, and technology transfers, providing a structured framework for long-term cooperation. Officials said that this move will also enhance India’s strategic outreach in the South Pacific region.
Moving Forward
Prime Minister Modi and PM Rabuka concluded the press conference by reaffirming their commitment to a strong, mutually beneficial partnership. Both sides expressed confidence that the new measures would deepen defence and security ties, strengthen economic relations, and foster goodwill between the peoples of India and Fiji.
The agreement signals a significant step in India’s foreign policy, emphasizing strategic partnerships with key regional players and showcasing India’s commitment to maintaining peace, security, and collaboration across continents.
