Fiji Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka on Thursday, February 16, said that India stood by his country in times of great need and will always be a special friend and trusted partner. During a joint press statement with External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar in Suva, the Fiji Prime Minister said, “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 which covers cooperation in all major areas of nation-building. India has stood by us in times of great need. We’re grateful to GoI for supporting us through the provision of life-saving vaccines and humanitarian assistance,” the PM of Fiji added.
In addition, he appreciated the Prime Minister Modi and Indian government for their support in co-hosting the 12th World Hindi Conference in Fiji. “Fiji appreciates India’s commitment towards the development of our pacific region through collective priorities. We are more resolved now than ever to build a strong and sustainable future for families in Fiji, the Pacific and beyond,” he said.
“On behalf of Govt of Fiji, I thank the government of India for realising this important cooperation. I’m confident that we will witness many more such initiatives unfolding through the deepening of our cooperation,” he continued.
While addressing the MoU on visa exemption between India and Fiji, the PM said, “We will certainly benefit, though the scale may differ.”
The External Affairs Minister, Jaishankar on Thursday launched the ‘Solarization of Residences of Pacific Heads of State Project’ in the presence of Fijian President, Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere in Suva, Fiji.