Addressing Fiji Parliament in Suva, Indian Prime Minister
Narendra Modi said that India is prepared to become a partner in strengthening
and modernising Fiji "As Fiji adjusts to the changing global markets,
India is prepared to be your partner in making your existing industries
stronger and finding new opportunities for the youth," he said. He added that for countries like India and
Fiji, village and small and medium size industries were the source of enterprise and employment. "I
am pleased to announce a grant of $5 million to strengthen and modernise Fiji's
village, small and medium industries." He also announced a line of credit
worth $70 million for Fiji. "Agriculture supports a majority of the
population in India and Fiji. As the largest producer of milk, India can help
your dairy industry which can also contribute to your exports," he said.
The prime minister said that India was willing to build a
digital Fiji and prepare the youth to integrate Fiji with the global IT
network. "In this digital age, every nation can be a part of the global
information industry. It is an industry that offers a great path to prosperity
and it has the right carbon footprint.We are pleased to set up a centre for
excellence in information and technology here in Fiji."
