Fiji's Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, is scheduled to visit India from August 24th to 26th, marking his first official trip to the country in his current role. During this visit, he will engage in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and meet with President Droupadi Murmu.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has highlighted the significance of this visit, emphasizing the long-standing and enduring ties between India and Fiji. The visit is expected to reaffirm the commitment of both nations to strengthen their bilateral relationship across various sectors and deepen the close people-to-people connections.
Prime Minister Rabuka's itinerary includes talks with Prime Minister Modi on August 25th in New Delhi. Prime Minister Modi will also host a lunch in honor of the Fijian leader. Additionally, Rabuka is scheduled to meet with President Droupadi Murmu. It is worth noting that President Murmu had visited Fiji in August 2024.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Rabuka is expected to deliver a speech on "Ocean of Peace" at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) in New Delhi. He will be accompanied by his spouse, Sulueti Rabuka, the Minister of Health and Medical Services, Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, and other senior officials.
India-Fiji relations are built upon mutual respect, cooperation, and strong cultural links. Over the years, India has provided support to Fiji in its nation-building efforts across key sectors and through capacity-building initiatives. The MEA also recalled Prime Minister Modi's visit to Fiji on November 19, 2014, which was described as a watershed moment for India-Fiji relations and India's engagement with Pacific Island countries. During that visit, three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, focusing on extending a line of credit for a co-generation plant in Fiji, training diplomats, and earmarking land for diplomatic missions in the respective capitals.
Prime Minister Rabuka and Prime Minister Modi previously met in Papua New Guinea in 2024. This upcoming visit to India underscores the continued commitment of both countries to strengthening their bilateral relationship and exploring new avenues for cooperation.