Strengthening Relations with Pacific Island Countries
India has actively pursued stronger ties and enhanced influence with Pacific Island Countries since at least 2014, which marked a significant shift in its foreign policy approach toward this strategically important region. The establishment of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) in 2014 laid the groundwork for a more collaborative and comprehensive relationship. Through FIPIC, India has engaged in various technological and diplomatic initiatives aimed at addressing pressing challenges faced by these island nations. Key areas of cooperation include disaster management, renewable energy projects like solar power, and efforts to improve electrification across the islands. Additionally, India has made significant investments in space technology by opening a satellite monitoring and research station in Fiji, demonstrating its commitment to support the socio-economic development of Pacific Island Countries.
The importance of these relationships was underscored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Papua New Guinea in May 2023, where he engaged with leaders from across the Pacific Island nations. This visit not only highlighted India's dedication to diplomatic dialogue but also served as a platform for addressing pressing regional concerns. During the Port Moresby summit, Modi notably met with leaders from Vanuatu, reaffirming India's commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties. A significant aspect of this engagement is India's apprehension regarding the growing influence of China in the Pacific, particularly concerning the establishment of potential naval bases and domination over valuable ocean resources. This context underscores India's strategic motivations in enhancing its partnerships within the region, as it seeks to balance China's expanding footprint.
India's engagement in the Pacific Island region has been recognized for its potential to drive transformative economic growth. As noted by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, Indian initiatives could have a profound impact on local economies, providing much-needed technological support and financial investment. The increasing prominence of Pacific Island nations in multilateral discussions, particularly within the framework of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), highlights the geopolitical significance of these relationships. As India, along with the United States, Australia, and Japan, seeks to ensure a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, collaboration with Pacific Island Countries will be crucial in countering challenges and promoting stability in the region. In this dynamic landscape, India's ongoing commitment to empowering Pacific Island nations exemplifies its broader vision for a collaborative and sustainable future in the Indo-Pacific region.
Climate Change Advocacy
Pacific island nations have been at the forefront of climate change diplomacy, passionately advocating for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from major global economies, including the United States, China, and India. Among these nations, Vanuatu is particularly notable, given its extreme vulnerability to climate change impacts such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and loss of biodiversity. The dire circumstances faced by Vanuatu have led to urgent calls for action on climate change, with President Nikenike Vurobaravu proposing a 'fossil-fuel non-proliferation treaty' aimed at curbing fossil fuel use globally. However, this proposition has sparked criticism from Indian commentators who perceive it as detrimental to India's developmental goals; they argue that it could hinder essential economic growth and energy needs.
India's stance on the issue reflects a balance between the need for environmental action and the requirements of its growing economy. The Indian government has consistently emphasized that coal—the predominant source of energy for its rapidly developing industries—should be 'phased down' rather than entirely 'phased out'. This nuanced position underscores the complexities of transitioning to greener energy sources while ensuring sustainable economic development for a nation with substantial energy demands. Furthermore, India's reluctance to adopt more aggressive measures has led to tensions in international forums, particularly highlighted during the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow.
At the Glasgow climate conference, India objected to the wording of resolutions aimed at phasing out fossil fuels, sparking opposition from small island nations that are desperate for more aggressive measures to combat climate change. In the aftermath of these discussions, the Alliance of Small Island States made a concerted effort to include fossil fuel elimination in national climate plans at COP27. These conflicts illustrate the broader challenges that emerge when balancing the aspirations and developmental needs of various nations against the urgent global call for climate action. Additionally, tensions between India and the Pacific island nations continued to manifest during the Bonn climate conference, revealing deep-seated divisions over climate policy and the path forward in the fight against climate change. As these dialogues unfold, the need for collaborative solutions that consider both ecological imperatives and the developmental realities of nations remains paramount.
Strong Ties Between India and Fiji
The relationship between India and Fiji is deeply rooted in history and cultural connections, significantly influenced by the Indian diaspora in the Pacific nation. Approximately 50% of Fiji's population is of Indian origin, known as Indo-Fijians, who have contributed immensely to the socio-economic landscape of the country. Their presence dates back to the 19th century when Indians were brought to Fiji as indentured laborers to work in the sugarcane plantations. Over the years, Indo-Fijians have integrated into Fijian society while maintaining their cultural identity, leading to a vibrant multicultural environment.
Political ties have also played a remarkable role in strengthening relations between India and Fiji. The election of Mahendra Chaudhry as the first Indo-Fijian prime minister in 1999 marked a significant milestone in Fijian politics, demonstrating the influence of the Indo-Fijian community in national governance. His tenure was an important period for representation and inclusivity, fostering a deeper connection with India. The political engagement has continued to evolve, with both nations recognizing the importance of collaboration in addressing regional issues such as climate change, trade, and security.
Beyond politics, India and Fiji have engaged in various areas of cooperation, including education, health, and technology. India has provided development assistance and capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing Fiji’s infrastructure and public services. The mutual interest in expanding trade ties further exemplifies this relationship, with both countries seeking to bolster economic cooperation. Cultural exchanges and diplomatic dialogues continue to play a crucial role in fostering goodwill, as Fiji and India collaborate on shared interests in regional stability and sustainable development initiatives. Overall, the Indo-Fijian connection remains a vital aspect of the bilateral relationship, paving the way for future collaborations and mutual growth.
India's Support and Vanuatu's Climate Advocacy
In 2017, India showcased its commitment to strengthening ties with Pacific Island nations by providing cyclone relief to Vanuatu following the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Hola. This gesture marked a significant step in India's diplomatic strategy to bolster its influence in the Pacific region. Vanuatu, on the other hand, is not just a recipient of aid; it actively champions the cause of climate change mitigation in international platforms. The nation advocates for stringent reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from major economies, including the United States, China, and India. Vanuatu's push stems from its unique vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change, making it one of the most at-risk nations globally.
Central to Vanuatu's environmental advocacy is President Nikenike Vurobaravu's call for the establishment of a "fossil-fuel non-proliferation treaty." However, this proposition has met with criticism from Indian commentators who deem it ill-conceived, arguing that such a treaty could hinder India's developmental aspirations. India's perspective reflects a more nuanced stance on coal use, suggesting a "phased down" approach rather than an outright "phased out" strategy. Vanuatu, embodying the voice of small island developing states, has garnered attention in significant forums like the United Nations, advocating for their environmental concerns to be treated with the urgency they merit. Publications like The Hindu have acknowledged Vanuatu’s strong and vocal representation, emphasizing its impact on global climate change discussions.
In March 2023, Vanuatu furthered its initiative by proposing a climate justice resolution, which was subsequently adopted by the UN General Assembly through consensus. This resolution highlighted the nation's ongoing commitment to addressing climate-related issues. Notably, Australia co-sponsored the resolution, while India chose not to support it, illuminating the differing environmental priorities between the two nations.
Additionally, Vanuatu has developed citizenship programs that have attracted individuals of Indian origin, contributing to its multicultural demographic. Notable citizens such as Atul and Rajesh Gupta have their roots in India, showcasing the historical connections between the two countries that extend beyond contemporary diplomacy.
Despite these ties, India and Vanuatu often find themselves at odds in environmental discussions beyond climate change. A prime example is the differing positions on deep-sea mining. Vanuatu has called for a temporary halt on deep-sea mining until comprehensive regulatory frameworks are established, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices. Conversely, India has actively engaged in deep-sea exploration contracts, signaling a desire to advance its interests in this area without delay. This clash illustrates the broader complexities of India-Pacific Island relations where bilateral cooperation is often influenced by differing priorities and perspectives on development and environmental sustainability.