India, Fiji to Strengthen Defence Partnership

Rapid Summary

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive talks with Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka during teh latter’s three-day visit to India, which began on August 24, 2025.
• Both sides agreed on a extensive action plan to strengthen defense and security cooperation.
• India will provide Fiji with training and equipment to bolster maritime security.
• Seven agreements were signed,aimed at expanding collaboration across multiple areas.
• PM Modi emphasized India and Fiji’s joint commitment to a free, inclusive, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
• Modi reiterated India’s focus on supporting the Global South and aiding Fiji in addressing climate change challenges through disaster response initiatives.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The enhanced defence-centric collaboration between India and Fiji underscores New Delhi’s strategic interest in countering China’s growing influence in the Pacific region. By focusing on maritime security and offering support in this area – crucial for island nations like Fiji – India is bolstering its ties as a reliable partner for smaller nations balancing larger geopolitical pressures. Signing seven bilateral pacts signifies an intent to diversify relations beyond defence into broader cooperation frameworks.

Additionally, this meeting aligns with India’s global emphasis on partnerships within the Global South by addressing shared challenges such as climate change while promoting equitable development perspectives internationally. For New Delhi, strengthening ties with countries like Fiji supports its broader Indo-Pacific strategy of ensuring regional stability while reinforcing its diplomatic footprint in traditionally less-engaged regions.

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