Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in positioning India as a leading voice for the Global South. In an interview with Firstpost, Rabuka described Modi as "a great statesman" whose priorities strongly align with the aspirations of developing nations, particularly in the Pacific region.

Rabuka's comments came during a three-day visit to India, where he met with Modi to discuss and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. The leaders expressed their commitment to a "free, open, secure, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region" and pledged to collaborate on enhancing regional maritime security.

India has a longstanding relationship with Fiji, rooted in shared history, cultural ties, and a significant diaspora presence. Overlapping strategic interests and economic integration within the Indo-Pacific further bind the two nations. Fiji has also expressed interest in joining India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

During Rabuka's visit, India and Fiji signed seven agreements spanning various sectors, including health, security, climate, trade, and culture, signaling a strengthened partnership. A key focus of the discussions was on deepening defense cooperation through joint efforts in peacekeeping, cyber security, and maritime surveillance. India has pledged to provide training and equipment to bolster Fiji's maritime security.

Modi emphasized India's commitment to the Global South, stating that India is a "co-traveler in the development of the Global South". He affirmed that India and Fiji are working together to shape a world order that respects the independence, ideas, and identity of developing nations. Rabuka acknowledged India's leadership in organizing the Voice of Global South Summits, which he sees as a vital platform for addressing the shared concerns and developmental priorities of developing countries.

Both leaders reiterated their commitment to "zero tolerance" towards terrorism, condemning the Pahalgam terrorist attack. They also stressed the need for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations, including expanding the UN Security Council, to better reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. Fiji reaffirmed its support for India's bid for permanent membership in a reformed and expanded UN Security Council, as well as its candidacy for a non-permanent seat for the 2028-29 term.

Modi highlighted the deep-rooted connection between India and Fiji, noting that despite being geographically distant, their aspirations align. He recalled his 2014 visit to Fiji, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 33 years, which marked the beginning of renewed engagement with the South Pacific region. During that visit, India launched the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) to engage with 14 Pacific Island Countries.

Rabuka's visit to India signifies a new chapter in India-Fiji relations, with agreements reached in key areas and a shared vision for a cooperative Indo-Pacific order. This renewed engagement not only benefits both nations but also reinforces India's growing leadership within the Global South.