India’s co-operation and assistance towards Pacific island countries will continue as per the announcements made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his regional trip earlier this year.
This was the assurance given by Indian high commissioner to Fiji P S Karthigeyan at a reception hosted by the Indian Government to mark the country’s 77 years of independence.
Mr Karthigeyan said 2023 had been a milestone in terms of India-Pacific relations, and PM Modi had unveiled a 12-point action plan on high-priority areas for the region at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).
These include, setting up of a 100-bed regional specialty hospital in Fiji, fully funded by the Government of India, 1000 new scholarships to the Pacific countries over five years, provision of desalination units, supply of sea ambulances, setting up of dialysis units and a national emergency helpline number and establishment of generic medicine outlets among others.
“I am confident that the new announcements, a testimony to our unwavering commitment to the Pacific region would also significantly help in taking forward the 2050 Blue Pacific Continent strategy and help meet the development aspirations of the region,” he said.
“On this happy occasion, even as we take great pride in our own achievements, we also celebrate equally the incredible development journey and inspiring successes of Fiji and our other Pacific friends against all challenges.”
According to Mr Kathigeyan, while they were satisfied with the progress achieved together so far, India was strongly convinced that the possibilities were immense compared to what had been achieved so far.
“On this occasion, I would like to reaffirm India’s strong commitment to working closely with Fiji and other Pacific friends to help unlock the full potential in our partnership for the mutual benefit of the people of both our countries.”
A number of dignitaries, businesspeople and academics were present at the event held at Grand Pacific Hotel.
