Suva, Fiji – In a bid to strengthen their bilateral ties and deepen regional cooperation, India's Secretary (South) Dr. Neena Malhotra led a high-level delegation to Fiji for the 6th India-Fiji Foreign Office Consultations (FOC). The two-day visit took place on July 29-30, 2025, in Suva, marking an important milestone in the growing partnership between the two nations.
During the FOC, Dr. Malhotra and her Fijian counterpart, Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs Dr. Raijeli Taga, engaged in extensive discussions to review and enhance their bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including health, education, capacity building, trade, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, climate change, people-to-people exchanges, and cultural ties.
The two delegations also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including developments in the Pacific. India's appreciation for Fijian Government's expression of solidarity and support in the global fight against terrorism was conveyed by Dr. Malhotra. The visit highlighted the strong bonds between India and Fiji, with both nations cooperating closely on regional security concerns.
The Secretary (South) paid courtesy calls on key government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Prof. Biman Prasad, Minister for Defence Mr. Pio Tikoduadua, and Assistant Minister for Health & Medical Services Mr. Penioni Ravunawa. Dr. Malhotra also held a roundtable discussion with prominent members of the business community in Fiji to promote economic cooperation.
The visit was significant as it contributed to the enhancement of bilateral ties and closer cooperation under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) in line with India's Act East Policy and the broader vision of the Indo-Pacific. The next round of the FOC is expected to be held in New Delhi at a mutually convenient time in 2026.
Key Takeaways:
• India and Fiji strengthened their bilateral ties through the 6th India-Fiji Foreign Office Consultations (FOC).
• Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in health, education, trade, investment, agriculture, renewable energy, climate change, people-to-people exchanges, and cultural ties.
• The two nations reaffirmed their commitment to regional security concerns and global issues of mutual interest.
• The visit promoted economic cooperation through high-level interactions with government officials and business leaders.
In conclusion, the visit of India's Secretary (South) to Fiji marked an important milestone in the growing partnership between the two nations. As they move forward, it is likely that India and Fiji will continue to strengthen their bilateral ties and cooperate closely on regional and global issues.