Modi In Fiji: Announces Visa On Arrival, Cooperation In Space

SUVA: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed that Fiji could become the hub for India's regional cooperation in space as he announced visa on arrival for Fijians and two Lines of Credit totaling $75 million.

In an address to the Fiji parliament, Modi, the first Indian prime minister to visit the Pacific island nation in 33 years, also proposed help to build a digital Fiji.

He announced a grant of $5 million to strengthen and modernize Fiji's village, small and medium industries and a Line of Credit of $70 million for a co-generation power plant at Rarav Sugar Mill and another $5 million for upgrading the sugar industry in Fiji.

He also offered India's expertise and assistance in the agriculture and offered India's help in developing Fiji's dairy industry. He said that both could expand trade in areas like fisheries, textiles and garments, and gems and jewellery and announced that India is setting up a centre of excellence in information technology in Fiji.

"We are prepared to work with you to build a Digitial Fiji and to equip your youth to integrate Fiji into the global IT network," he said.

He added: "We could work to make Fiji the hub for our regional collaboration in space, just as India has done with ASEAN."

"Today, I propose that we work together to harness the potential of space technology for governance, economic development, conservation, climate change and natural disasters," Modi said.

He also expressed thanked for Fiji hosting Indian scientists for tracking the Mars Mission, Mangalyaan.

"It was the only mission in the world (to Mars) to succeed in the first attempt," he said and added that the "simple yet profound act of cooperation reflects the boundless possibilities in our relationship, if we choose to seek them".

He described Fiji as a "strong voice on behalf of the Pacific Islands and a hub of this region".