Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has acknowledged the vital contribution of India to Fiji’s sugar industry. He emphasized that specialized local training is crucial for improving productivity, embracing modern techniques, and maintaining high standards within the industry. Gavoka noted the commitment from India through the deployment of experts from the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program to the Fiji Sugar Corporation, providing essential technical knowledge and capacity-building initiatives.
Looking ahead, Gavoka expressed hope that such collaborative efforts will yield ongoing benefits for farmers, ensuring the sustainability and growth of Fiji’s sugar sector. He stressed the necessity for organized, specialized training for Fijian sugar professionals, aiming to modernize practices in this significant industry.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, supported Gavoka’s views by highlighting the importance of equipping the youth of Fiji with skills that can improve their educational and career prospects. Mehta introduced the Declaration of Intent on Migration and Mobility Partnership, which seeks to enhance educational, employment, and cultural exchanges between Fiji and India. This initiative underlines India’s dedication to empowering Fijian human capital and creating a brighter future through shared learning and mutual respect.
The partnership between Fiji and India has also seen previous commitments, such as the provision of 12 agricultural drones and two mobile soil testing labs, further exemplifying a beneficial technology transfer model tailored for the sugar industry. In addition, the construction of a 100-bed Super Specialty Hospital in Suva aims to enhance healthcare access for the Fijian population.
These developments signify a crucial turning point in Fiji-India relations, highlighting a proactive partnership that seeks to improve agricultural practices, meet educational needs, and advance comprehensive skill development. This trajectory not only indicates progress for Fiji’s sugar industry but also suggests a sustainable future built on cooperation and shared growth goals between the two nations. The ongoing collaboration presents an optimistic outlook for the sugar sector and the overall prosperity of Fiji and its communities.