Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama will join Pacific leaders this month at the second ‘Forum for India – Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC)’ Summit from 20th – 21st August 2015 in three different cities across India to discuss ways to enhance India’s relationship with Fiji and other Pacific Island states. A total of 13 leaders from Pacific Island countries, including Fiji, have confirmed their attendance.
This year’s forum follows the successful summit held in Fiji last year between India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and Pacific Islander leaders, including Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. The success of last year’s summit led to Prime Minster Modi’s proposal that FIPIC be held regularly, with this year’s meeting to be held in India. In line with last year’s summit, this year’s meeting will look at strengthening cooperation between Pacific Island states and India.
“The Fijian and Indian governments share many interests including a strong commitment to democracy, both countries have much to gain by expanding trade, investment, and cultural and technical exchanges,” said Prime Minister Bainimarama. “It is my hope that this visit will strengthen our friendship and allow India and Fiji to move forward together into a future of shared prosperity.”
Prime Minister Bainimarama is expected to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi during his visit to India.