How Are India and Fiji Strengthening Their Bilateral Relations?
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Synopsis
India and Fiji's recent consultations marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties. Discover how the nations are working together across various sectors, from health to culture, in a bid to enhance cooperation and mutual prosperity.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened Cooperation: India and Fiji are enhancing partnerships across key sectors.
- High-level Engagements: Both countries are committed to regular political consultations.
- Health Initiatives: A new Super Speciality Hospital is underway in Fiji.
- FIPIC's Role: The Forum is pivotal in promoting India-Pacific collaboration.
- Future Consultations: Next discussions are expected in New Delhi in 2026.
Suva, July 30 (NationPress) – India and Fiji convened for the 6th Foreign Office Consultations in Suva on Tuesday, focusing on enhancing bilateral collaboration in sectors such as health, education, capacity building, trade, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, climate change, and cultural exchanges.
Leading the Indian delegation was Neena Malhotra, Secretary, South, Ministry of External Affairs, while Raijeli Taga, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, headed the Fijian side. During the discussions, Malhotra conveyed India’s gratitude for the Fijian Government’s solidarity in the global fight against terrorism, particularly referencing the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that the FOC served as a platform to examine and discuss the full spectrum of bilateral relations. The Secretary, South, and the Permanent Secretary exchanged ideas on enhancing cooperation in health, education, capacity building, trade, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, climate change, and cultural exchanges to deepen and diversify the India-Fiji partnership.
Both delegations also discussed regional and global issues of shared interest, including developments in the Pacific. They agreed to sustain regular high-level interactions and political consultations. The last India-Fiji Foreign Office Consultations took place in Suva in 2022.
According to the MEA's announcement, the next round of Foreign Office Consultations is anticipated to be hosted in New Delhi at a mutually agreed time in 2026.
During her stay, Malhotra made courtesy calls on Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, and Assistant Minister for Health & Medical Services, Penioni Ravunawa.
The High Commission of India in Fiji shared on X, “Dr. Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South), engaged with Hon. Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Finance Prof. Biman Prasad to discuss enhancing the India-Fiji bilateral partnership in health, cultural initiatives, and people-to-people connections.”
She also connected with Fiji's Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, Minister for Employment Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, and Assistant Minister for the Office of the Prime Minister, Sakiusa Tubuna.
While in Fiji, the Secretary, South, participated in a roundtable with prominent business figures, focusing on strengthening trade relations and investment opportunities for mutual prosperity. The Indian High Commission stated on X, “Dr. Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South), attended a roundtable with business leaders, emphasizing the importance of trade and investment in fostering partnerships for shared prosperity.”
Malhotra also visited the site for a new 100-bedded Super Speciality Hospital in Nasinu, Suva — a pivotal initiative aimed at bolstering Fiji's healthcare system, according to the Indian High Commission.
The MEA noted that the visit of the Secretary (South) significantly contributed to the enhancement of bilateral relations and closer cooperation under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), aligning with India’s Act East Policy and the broader Indo-Pacific vision.
In May 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Papua New Guinean counterpart James Marape co-hosted the third summit of FIPIC in Port Moresby. This unique platform unites India with 14 Pacific Island nations, including the Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, and more.
Launched in Fiji in 2014 during Prime Minister Modi's visit, FIPIC has significantly deepened India's engagement with Pacific Island Countries (PIC) across various sectors, in line with the priorities set by FIPIC member nations.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of India and Fiji’s ongoing diplomatic efforts. Their collaboration represents an opportunity for mutual growth and cultural exchange, aligning with India's broader strategic objectives in the Indo-Pacific region.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the India-Fiji Foreign Office Consultations?
The consultations aim to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including health, education, trade, and cultural exchanges.
Who led the Indian delegation during the consultations?
The Indian delegation was led by Neena Malhotra, Secretary, South, Ministry of External Affairs.
When is the next round of Foreign Office Consultations expected?
The next round is anticipated to take place in New Delhi in 2026.
What sectors were discussed during the meeting?
Key sectors discussed include health, education, capacity building, trade, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, and cultural exchanges.
What is the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC)?
FIPIC is a platform that fosters collaboration between India and 14 Pacific Island countries to enhance engagement across various domains.
