India, Fiji Boost Defence And Security Partnership With Seven Agreements Amid China's Challenges In Indo-Pacific

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Fijian counterpart Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka on Monday (25 August) finalised a broad action plan to expand defence cooperation after holding extensive talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, reported The Hindu.

Modi stressed the common aspirations of the two nations despite geographical distance. "India and Fiji may be oceans apart, but our aspirations sail in the same boat," he said. He emphasised that both countries support a free, inclusive, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Rabuka, who arrived in Delhi on Sunday for a three-day trip, undertook his first official visit to India as Fiji’s Prime Minister. India views Fiji as a significant partner in maritime security while countering China’s growing strategic influence in the Pacific.

Following their discussions, the two sides signed seven agreements covering multiple areas of cooperation.

“We have decided to strengthen mutual cooperation in the defence and security sector,” PM Modi announced, noting that the action plan includes training and equipment support to enhance Fiji’s maritime security.

Highlighting India’s role in the Global South, PM Modi said, “We are partners in building a world order where the independence, ideas and identity of the Global South are respected.”

Acknowledging Fiji’s vulnerability to climate change, the Prime Minister assured New Delhi’s assistance in disaster response and resilience-building.

Through these initiatives, India and Fiji committed to deepening ties in defence, security, and sustainable development.

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