How are India and Fiji Strengthening Their Bilateral Cooperation?
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Key Takeaways
Suva, Feb 2 (NationPress) India's High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, convened a meeting with Fiji Parliament Speaker, Filimone Jitoko, on Monday to discuss the enhancement of bilateral cooperation.
Following their discussions, the Indian High Commission in Fiji shared on X, stating, "High Commissioner Suneet Mehta was privileged to meet with the Speaker of the Fiji Parliament, Hon. Filimone Jitoko. They engaged in constructive talks reaffirming robust parliamentary relations and exploring new avenues to further bolster bilateral cooperation."
On January 27, Mehta led the second meeting of the Project Steering Committee to evaluate the Quick Impact Project (QIP) - "Tubalevu Ground Water Supply Project," which is being supported by India.
In a post on X, the Indian Commission in Fiji remarked, "High Commissioner Suneet Mehta chaired the second meeting of the Project Steering Committee regarding the QIP - 'Tubalevu Ground Water Supply Project,' with participation from representatives of the Fiji Government, Fiji Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Fiji Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Public Works. Work has already commenced on the ground to ensure water supply to the residents of Tubalevu, further solidifying the ties between India and Fiji."
Earlier, on January 19, Suneet Mehta also met with Fiji's Minister for Finance, Commerce, and Business Development, Esrom Immanuel, where they discussed enhancing cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.
"High Commissioner Suneet Mehta paid a courtesy visit to the Minister for Finance, Commerce, and Business Development, Hon. Esrom Immanuel today. They engaged in productive discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cooperation in mutually beneficial areas.
The relationship between India and Fiji is grounded in mutual respect and collaboration, underpinned by strong cultural and people-to-people connections. The bilateral partnership was significantly enhanced following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Fiji in November 2014, during which the inaugural meeting of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) took place, as noted by the Indian High Commission in Fiji. Over the years, India has actively supported Fiji in its nation-building efforts across key sectors and in capacity building.