Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced a visa-on-arrival for Fijians and assistance projects that included a Parliament library and doubling the scholarships and training slots in India for people from Fiji.

The lines of credit were part of three agreements signed between the two countries in the presence of the two leaders.

The Pacific Island nation rolled out a red carpet for  Modi, who was received by his counterpart Frank Bainimarama, at the Suva International airport.  Modi was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the airport after which he attended the traditional welcome ceremony at Albert park.

“It is a new day and a new beginning in our relations with Fiji,”  Modi said in a joint appearance with  Bainimarama.

“Fiji could serve as a hub for stronger Indian engagement with Pacific Islands. I see this visit as an opportunity to renew an old relationship and lay the foundation for a strong partnership in the future,” he added.

 Modi also addressed the Fijian Parliament, a first by a foreign leader, after parliamentary elections, during which he said that India was prepared to work with Fiji to build a “Digital Fiji”.

Fiji Prime Minister said  Modi’s visit has laid the groundwork for “productive relationship” between the two countries. (KH/SDF)