India and Fiji today signed three agreements to strengthen bilateral relations. In a joint statement after his meeting with Fijian counterpart, Josiah V Bainimarama, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced visa on arrival for the people of the pacific island nation. He also announced a USD 5 million fund to promote small business and village enterprises, USD 70 million line of credit for a power plant and doubling of the scholarships and training slots in India for Fijian students.
Mr. Modi said the two countries have shared interests in peace and cooperation in the inter-linked ocean regions and it is an important partner for India and an influential voice in the Pacific Region and the developing world. He said, this visit is an opportunity to renew an old relationship and lay the foundation for a strong partnership in the future.
The two Prime Ministers agreed to expand defence and security cooperation, including assistance in defence training and capacity building. They also agreed to identify opportunities to expand trade and investments and work out a concrete road map. The two leaders agreed to consult each other more closely on international issues of mutual interest, including international trade, climate change, United Nations Peacekeeping and UN reforms. He said, the two countries will do more in other areas such as tourism and cultural exchanges, cooperation in renewable energy, especially solar and wind energy, and in building capacity to adapt to climate change.
Later the Prime Minister addressed Fiji's parliament and said, India is ready to work for making Fiji a digital country. He complemented the Fijian Prime Minister for framing a Constitution that not only guarantees freedoms and rights the citizens, but also to ensure their basic needs and empower them. Mr. Modi said, India has always supported Fiji and its efforts to seek a fair and urgent response from the international community for a sustainable future.
Mr. Modi said the two countries have shared interests in peace and cooperation in the inter-linked ocean regions and it is an important partner for India and an influential voice in the Pacific Region and the developing world. He said, this visit is an opportunity to renew an old relationship and lay the foundation for a strong partnership in the future.
The two Prime Ministers agreed to expand defence and security cooperation, including assistance in defence training and capacity building. They also agreed to identify opportunities to expand trade and investments and work out a concrete road map. The two leaders agreed to consult each other more closely on international issues of mutual interest, including international trade, climate change, United Nations Peacekeeping and UN reforms. He said, the two countries will do more in other areas such as tourism and cultural exchanges, cooperation in renewable energy, especially solar and wind energy, and in building capacity to adapt to climate change.
Later the Prime Minister addressed Fiji's parliament and said, India is ready to work for making Fiji a digital country. He complemented the Fijian Prime Minister for framing a Constitution that not only guarantees freedoms and rights the citizens, but also to ensure their basic needs and empower them. Mr. Modi said, India has always supported Fiji and its efforts to seek a fair and urgent response from the international community for a sustainable future.
