India & Fiji Relations

Why in the News?

During Fijian PM Sitiveni Rabuka’s visit to India, PM Narendra Modi announced that India will provide training and equipment to upgrade Fiji’s maritime security.

• Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, countering China’s growing influence in the Pacific islands.

Key Highlights of India–Fiji Defence & Strategic Cooperation:

Maritime Security & Defence

• India to provide training and equipment for Fiji’s maritime security.
• Strengthening cooperation on UN peacekeeping operations, military medicine, White Shipping Information Exchange, and capacity-building for Fijian armed forces.
• Planned port call by Indian Naval Ship to Fiji to boost maritime cooperation.

• The Indian High Commission in Suva has established a new defence division.

MoUs Signed (7 total)

• Super-specialty hospital in Fiji.
• Migration and mobility cooperation.
• Cybersecurity collaboration (including a cybersecurity training cell in Fiji).
• Humanitarian assistance & disaster relief cooperation.

Gifting & Assistance

• India gifted two ambulances to Fiji’s military forces.
• Capacity building for armed forces and wider cooperation against terrorism.

Geopolitical Context

• Fiji’s Prime Minister Rabuka had previously resisted China’s proposal to set up a naval base in the Pacific region.
• India’s deepening engagement with Fiji signals its effort to counter China’s growing influence.
• Both leaders emphasized regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

Significance of the Move:

For India:

• Bolsters India’s position as a key security guarantor in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Supports the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
• Counters China’s strategic expansion in the Pacific.

For Fiji:

• Enhances maritime domain awareness and protection of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Gains defence equipment, training, and healthcare support.
• Builds resilience in cybersecurity, disaster management, and terrorism response.

For the Indo-Pacific:

• Reinforces the idea of a free, open, inclusive, and secure Indo-Pacific.

Strengthens multilateralism and regional cooperation in line with Quad principles.