India-Fiji Relations: A New Chapter of Relations Building through Capacity Building

Abstract

In the 21^st century, the strategic geographical locations of nations are pivotal in the world order for building strong and strategic relations. The Southwest Pacific region in the 21^st century is very important for the world due to its strategic location, and it will help nations to have control over the region for trade, security, and a free and open ocean. Countries like the USA, China, India, Australia, Japan and other stakeholders are trying to build their stakes in the Southwest Pacific Island nations. India is also not far behind in the efforts to have a good and strategic relationship with the Southwest Pacific nations. The creation of the Forum-Pacific Island Cooperation (FIPIC) in 2014 was a strategic step to bring the fourteen Island nations together. Fiji is one of the important and leading nations among the fourteen Island nations.

In light of the above dynamics, this paper examines India’s approaches toward the Pacific Island nations with a specific focus on Fiji. How Fiji is strategically important to India and how India, through its capacity-building method, helps Fiji and itself to have a strong hold on the Southwest Pacific region. This paper also explains the Indian efforts of building connection the Indo-Fijian community, showing a feeling of oneness with the Indian people.