More than 21 Cabinet ministers together with Fiji’s three deputy prime ministers have undertaken visits to India in the past year.
While highlighting this during the International Day for Yoga celebration in Suva yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad said the visits reflected the strong political will and shared commitment from both sides to deepen bilateral engagement across key sectors.
“I think this is probably a record in two-and-a-half years,” Prof Prasad said.
He says Fiji’s development partnership with India is stronger than ever.
“It touches nearly every aspect of nation building in Fiji, including healthcare, agriculture, information technology, renewable energy and capacity building.
“And I’m especially pleased to note that the Government of India has undertaken one of the largest development projects in the entire Pacific — the construction of the 100-bed super-specialty hospital.
“This landmark project was announced by the Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, during the FIPIC III Summit in 2023 in Papua New Guinea, and it is currently under progress.”
He said once completed, the 100-bed super-specialty hospital would significantly enhance healthcare access and medical services for the people of Fiji and the wider Pacific region.
“I think it was appropriate for me to highlight some of those cooperation and partnership that we are continuing to build with India.
“We deeply appreciate this partnership which continues to evolve in step with the priorities and aspirations of the Fijian people.”
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Suneet Mehta said Fiji and India had a strong and enduring bond.
“I hope that bonds between India and Fiji continue to grow stronger, fostering greater cooperation in health, wellness, and cultural exchange,” Mr Mehta said.
