On August 25, 2025, India and Fiji took significant steps to enhance their defense and maritime security cooperation during a joint press conference held by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. A key initiative announced was the establishment of a Defence Attaché post at the High Commission of India in Fiji’s capital, Suva, aimed at fostering stronger bilateral ties and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
The joint statement issued post-conference underscored the increasing momentum in the two nations’ partnership, which includes a planned port call by an Indian Naval Ship to Fiji later in the year. PM Modi highlighted India’s commitment to strengthening defense collaboration, which includes gifting two sea ambulances to Fiji’s Military Forces and creating a Cyber Security Training Cell (CSTC) in Fiji to address contemporary challenges.
Both leaders reiterated their dedication to furthering defense cooperation through initiatives designed for mutual benefits, focusing on areas like maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR). PM Rabuka emphasized the importance of securing Fiji’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and welcomed India’s commitment to assist in enhancing security capabilities. He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming Indian Naval port visit, which is set to improve maritime cooperation between the two countries.
The joint statement also showcased a shared commitment to various sectors, including United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, Military Medicine, White Shipping Information Exchange, and capacity building for Fiji’s military. The leaders acknowledged the growing synergy in bilateral defense relations, with a focus on a “free, open, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.”
During a special briefing about PM Rabuka’s visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (South), Neena Malhotra, reiterated the focus on defense and security cooperation. She explained that efforts are concentrated on training, capacity building, and enhancing Fiji’s maritime capabilities to address regional security challenges, particularly given the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters like cyclones.
The overarching goal of these initiatives is to promote a shared vision of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development between India and Fiji. PM Rabuka’s visit, which is his first as Fiji’s Prime Minister, aims to deepen ties across various sectors, reinforcing strategic partnerships and people-to-people exchanges.
Overall, the developments signal a robust commitment from both nations to advance their cooperative efforts, particularly in the areas of defense and regional security, reflecting their aspirations for enhanced stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
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