Modi's attempt to woo Fiji and its leaders

Modi’s impending visit to the country of Kangaroo is definitely a news of attraction after his very successful and eventful visit in USA. The Indian populace in Australia, by and large, is not  so persuasive on the authoritative power in the government therein; still Modi’s speech at G-20 summit will definitely push the things of Indian sovereignty little more. He may not receive a rousing welcome as he had received in USA, nevertheless the whole world, particularly G-20 nations will be very attentive to hear him. On the way back, he will stop by in Fiji to do hobnobbing with the leaders of the ruling party of Fiji. Modi, like the Chinese President XI-Jinping is acknowledging the growing importance of this Pacific island nation and he knows that if he encourages the development of this nation, some reciprocating fruition is possible for India also. The Fiji’s leaders are playing host to XI-Jinping who also decides to stop over in Fiji after the G-20 summit in Australia,is over. It is not that clear  whether Modi will meet the Chinese President in Fiji or not, but both India and China are on the same wave length. Recently, US has lifted the sanctions on Fiji and the commonwealth is now readmitting their elections held in last September. The lift of sanction and commonwealth’s acceptance has rekindled the world’s interest for this nation.  To afresh, Fiji’s Frank Bainimarama and his party won the September  elections, polling and garnering a 60% of the votes.  

Traditionally, Fiji has always evoked interest for Indians with respect to tourism because of their scenic beauties and picturesque places. This interest is continuously getting increased.Further, due to the large number of Indo-Fijians who were the very powerful ethnic community there before many were forced to emigrate. India showed its interest to tie-up with this island way back in the year 1879. Many Indian laborers were taken in this country to work in the augmentation of sugar plantations. A larger number of Indian population is used today also for various manual works. This island is pervaded with the trade activities of Indian business community and the twentieth century saw an upsurge in this activity.

From the government of India’s side, the last visit of any Prime Minister was of Indira Gandhi. But from their side, on a number of occasions, many leaders, including Mr. Bainimarama visited to establish and strengthen the cordiality of the relationship of these two countries.

In the past few years, China has increased their involvement enormously in this country for business and economic development. China has announced a record investment of over US 2 billions through different ventures overpowering the dominance of Australia with this country in this Pacific region.

Modi rightly understands the gravity of the situation and has taken all his perseverance to increase the tie-up both economically and financially with this small island. Hats off to Modi and his acumen because in his place, if there is any other Prime Minister, he would have not taken any trouble to visit Fiji enrouting India.