India, Fiji call for open Indo-Pacific region, agree to deepen defence ties , Pg10

Key Highlights:

• India and Fiji have agreed to deepen defence ties, with India providing training and equipment to enhance Fiji's maritime security.
• Both nations expressed strong support for a free, open Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing regional peace, stability, and prosperity.
• Seven MoUs were signed, including agreements for a super-specialty hospital in Fiji and cooperation on migration and mobility.
• India will provide two ambulances to Fiji's military and establish a defence wing in the High Commission of India in Suva.

Detailed Insights:

• The MoU on Defence Cooperation signed in 2017 was reaffirmed, highlighting India's commitment to supporting Fiji's strategic priorities.
• Cooperation will extend to UN peacekeeping operations, military medicine, information exchange, and capacity-building for Fijian forces.
• Fiji emphasized the need to protect its Exclusive Economic Zone, welcoming India's assistance with security needs and maritime cooperation.
• Both countries will enhance cooperation in cybersecurity, including setting up a training cell in Fiji, and collaborate on disaster relief.
• Fiji has expressed concerns about China's potential naval base in the Pacific, aligning with the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative: India's framework for a secure, stable, and prosperous maritime domain in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): A sea zone over which a state has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources.
• White Shipping Information Exchange: Sharing of information on non-military vessels to enhance maritime domain awareness and security.