The Government of Fiji and the Republic of India convened the Sixth Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthen bilateral relations, cultural ties, socio-economic development, and international cooperation.
The consultations brought together senior officials from both governments to review current areas of cooperation and to explore new opportunities for deeper ongoing collaborations. The consultations also served as a strategic platform to prepare for the upcoming official visit of the Prime Minister of Fiji and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, to India on August 25, 2025.
The one-day consultation convened yesterday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Suva was presided over by Fiji’s Permanent Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Raijeli Taga, and the Republic of India’s Secretary (South) of the Ministry of External Affairs of India, Dr. Neena Malhotra.
Dr. Taga welcomed Dr. Malhotra and her delegation from the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India and conveyed her deep gratitude to India for their support in undertaking this important dialogue. She acknowledged India’s contributions to Fiji’s socio-economic development through the Forum for India-Pacific Island Countries cooperation, India Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC), and various bilateral-level development projects such as the proposed 100-bed Super Speciality Cardiology Hospital.
Dr. Malhotra conveyed similar sentiments in expressing confidence that the outcomes of the Sixth Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) will strengthen stronger cooperation between the two countries. Dr. Malhotra also acknowledged the opportunity to hear directly from senior government officials on Fiji’s Foreign Policy, regional cooperation and national development priorities. Dr. Malhotra added that she looks forward to the implementation of the landmark 100-bed super speciality hospital project and the establishment of the Indian Cultural Centre and Chancery in Suva.
As Fiji and India approach the commemoration of 55 years of formal diplomatic relations, the Sixth Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) served as important dialogue that reaffirmed both countries commitment to preserving their historical ties and enduring partnership, elevating the relationship to newer heights.