Fiji’s Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Prof. Biman Prasad, has reaffirmed Fiji’s commitment to working with India to advance peace, security, and sustainable development across the Indo-Pacific.
Speaking at a deck reception onboard INS Kadmatt at Suva Port, Prof. Prasad said the vessel’s arrival was more than a ceremonial visit, describing it as “a celebration of friendship, of trust, and of the enduring partnership between Fiji and India.”
The Acting Prime Minister noted that Pacific leaders had recently endorsed Fiji’s proposal for the Blue Pacific to be declared an “Ocean of Peace” during their meeting in Honiara.
Prof. Prasad added that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed strong support for the vision when he met with Fiji’s Prime Minister in Delhi.
“The arrival of INS Kadmatt represents a significant step in advancing India’s cooperation towards this vision,” Prof. Prasad said.
“This visit underscores India’s support for promoting the Blue Pacific as an Ocean of Peace, an ocean that is welcoming to all and that respects the sovereignty and interests of Pacific Island communities.”
Prof. Prasad added that Fiji and India share common values, deep cultural ties, and a longstanding history of cooperation in areas such as climate resilience, agriculture, education, digital transformation, and health.
Cabinet ministers and members of the diplomatic corps also attended the event.
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