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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said it was a privilege to partner in the nation building efforts across various sectors in the South Pacific country. He emphasized on the “close and long-standing ties” shared between India and Fiji through “people to people linkages.”
Jaishankar expressed his gratitude to the Fiji government for joining hands with India for the 12th World Hindi Conference in Nadi. He said that the arrangements the government had made were remarkable.
A warm and wide ranging meeting with PM and FM @slrabuka of Fiji in Suva.
Discussed our long-standing ties and ways of intensifying cooperation. Exchanged views on areas of priority. We will upgrade our development partnership accordingly. pic.twitter.com/6A9jUEvvAX
Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 16, 2023
Addressing a joint press conference with the Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, Jaishankar said, “I would like to take this opportunity to really publically and sincerely thank the government of Fiji for partnering with us on this very important cultural, heritage exercise we do regularly The arrangements which were made were truly exceptional.”
PM Rabuka is also appreciating PM Narendra Modi and the Indian government for their support in co-hosting the conference.
He said, “I would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to PM Narendra Modi and the Indian government for their incredible support in co-hosting the 12th World Hindi conference in Fiji. I’m pleased to say that India will always be a special friend and trusted partner to Fiji. Together we’ve built a robust multifaceted partnership that covers cooperation in all major areas of nation-building. India has stood by us in times of great need. We’re grateful to the Government of India for supporting us through the provision of life-saving vaccines and humanitarian assistance.”
The EAM stated that the meeting on Thursday symbolizes a landmark achievement forward in India and Fiji’s resolve to advance collaboration at all levels.
Earlier on Thursday morning, Jaishankar also spoke with the President of Fiji Wiliame Katonivere. Together they launched the “Solarisation of the Pacific Heads of State Residences Project” which is supported by the government of India and the state house in Suva, Fiji.
The Union minister said, “This project reflects India’s strong commitment to climate action, to climate justice. It is also underlining our shared priorities with the pacific islands on this very important challenge of climate change. We also just signed and exchanged the visa waiver agreement . It will encourage greater travel between our two countries”
The external affairs minister, who is on a three-day official visit to Fiji, is looking forward to meeting members from the Indian diaspora.
(With inputs from ANI)
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