India, Fiji ink MoU to cement visa exceptions

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Indian Minister for External Affairs Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar shakes hands with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka after a joint press conference at the Grand Pacific Hotel conference room in Suva on Thursday, February 16, 2023. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between India and Fiji today to cement visa exceptions for holders of diplomatic and official passports from both countries.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said this was a milestone achievement in building stronger connectivity for people of both nations.

“Fiji also appreciates India’s commitment towards the development of our Pacific region through the collective priorities enshrined in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent,” he said.

“We are more resolved now, than ever, to build a strong and sustainable future for the families in Fiji, Pacific and beyond.

“A step toward achieving this goal, will be signing of the Fiji and India Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on exemption of Visa requirements for holders of diplomatic and official passport holders.

“The MOU represents a milestone achievement in building a stronger connectivity for peoples of both the nations. It will bolster economic opportunities in trade, tourism, business and investment.

“On behalf of the Government of Fiji, I thank the Government of India for realisation of this important cooperation. I am confident that we will witness many more of such initiatives unfold through deepened cooperation.”

India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said the visa waiver agreement would certainly be helpful in encouraging greater travel between the two countries.