**India and Fiji Strengthen Defence Ties for a Peaceful Indo-Pacific**
India and Fiji have established a comprehensive action plan to enhance their defence collaboration and jointly promote peace in the Indo-Pacific region. This agreement was reached during discussions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka on Monday. Despite the vast distance between the two nations, PM Modi emphasized their shared aspirations, stating, “Our aspirations sail in the same boat.”
Rabuka’s visit to India, which began on Sunday and will last three days, marks his first official trip to the country as Prime Minister of Fiji. Recognized as a key player in maritime security, Fiji is increasingly significant to India, especially in light of China’s growing influence in the Pacific.
Following their talks, Modi and Rabuka signed seven agreements aimed at bolstering cooperation across various sectors, including medicine, skill development, trade, and capacity building. The leaders condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, reaffirming their commitment to a “zero tolerance” policy towards terrorism and rejecting any “double standards” in addressing this global issue. Modi stated, “We have decided to strengthen mutual cooperation in the defence and security sector,” highlighting a prepared action plan for this initiative.
India will provide training and equipment to enhance Fiji’s maritime security capabilities. Modi also reiterated India’s commitment to supporting the Global South, emphasizing the importance of respecting the independence and identity of these nations. He acknowledged climate change as a significant threat to Fiji and pledged assistance in disaster response efforts.
Both leaders shared a vision for a robust, inclusive, and sustainable Indo-Pacific economic framework, committing to work together for mutual prosperity. The joint statement from their meeting underscored the importance of a free, open, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on strengthening regional maritime security.
In a significant move, India announced the establishment of a defence attaché position at its high commission in Fiji. Additionally, PM Modi revealed plans to gift Fiji 12 agricultural drones and two mobile soil testing laboratories, further enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Both leaders also recognized the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the United Nations, including the expansion of the UN Security Council.
**FAQ**
**What are the key outcomes of the India-Fiji talks?**
The talks resulted in a broad action plan to enhance defence ties, seven signed agreements across various sectors, and a commitment to collaborate on regional security and counter-terrorism efforts.
