India-Fiji Partnership: A New Chapter in Global South Diplomacy

New Delhi. India's commitment to a free, open, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific was recently highlighted during the three-day visit of Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, which concluded on August 26. This landmark visit saw India and Fiji signing several key agreements and developing a comprehensive action plan to enhance their defense cooperation. India designated Fiji as a crucial "Global South" partner, underscoring the shared vision of both nations for a stable and prosperous region.

Fiji's strategic location makes it a vital partner for India in maritime security. Amid China's relentless efforts to expand its influence in the Pacific, India is keen on strengthening its defense ties with Fiji. This proactive approach is part of a broader strategy to bolster partnerships with Global South and small island nations in the Pacific, thereby ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific.

This renewed focus on the Pacific Islands began in 2014, when an Indian Prime Minister visited Fiji after a 33-year gap. This visit led to the establishment of the 'Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation' (FIPIC). Since then, the Indian government has consistently expanded its collaboration with nations like Kiribati, Vanuatu, Timor-Leste, and Brunei. This growing cooperation is not only elevating India's voice as a champion of the Global South but also significantly strengthening its engagement across the entire Pacific region.

Following his meeting with PM Rabuka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, "While India and Fiji are separated by vast oceans, our aspirations sail in the same boat. We are partners in building a world order where the independence, ideas, and identity of the Global South are respected."

Nina Malhotra, Secretary (South) at the Ministry of External Affairs, confirmed that the discussions covered all aspects of the relationship, including political cooperation, high-level contacts, trade, agriculture, education, healthcare, mobility, defense, capacity building, and people-to-people connections. She added that Fiji is a valuable partner in the Indo-Pacific and plays a significant role as a regional hub in the Pacific.