New York, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : India’s Foreign Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, recently presented a comprehensive report on India’s development partnership with Pacific Island nations during the India-FIPIC Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New York. The meeting highlighted significant projects, including a 100-bed super specialty hospital in Fiji and the solarization of 2,800 homes across 14 countries.
Dr. Jaishankar welcomed attendees warmly, expressing his intent to review progress since the third FIPIC summit in 2023. He emphasized the growth of bilateral relations through two frameworks: the FIPIC structure and the India-United Nations Development Partnership Fund. These initiatives have underscored India’s commitment to improving livelihoods, building capacity, and promoting sustainable development.
Among the notable projects he mentioned was the advancement of the super specialty hospital in Fiji, which is expected to address the healthcare needs of Pacific Island nations. Additionally, he discussed the delivery of dialysis machines to Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Samoa, Palau, Nauru, Kiribati, and the Marshall Islands, highlighting ongoing efforts for other member states.
Dr. Jaishankar also noted plans to procure and supply 20 marine ambulances, with requests received from 12 member states. He expressed confidence that deliveries would commence by March 27. Furthermore, preparations are underway for an artificial lymphatic treatment camp in Fiji, aiming to assist around 650 eligible patients in need.
The Foreign Minister pointed out that Fiji, Nauru, and the Solomon Islands have recognized the Indian Pharmacopoeia. He expressed enthusiasm for sharing experiences from the People’s Pharmacy initiative, which has effectively improved healthcare access. In Nauru, the first batch of medicines has already been supplied.
India has also committed to establishing centers of excellence in IT and training local instructors in various Pacific nations, including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, the Cook Islands, Vanuatu, Nauru, Niue, and the Solomon Islands. The solarization project has successfully completed installations in 2,800 homes and trained 70 female solar engineers.
Dr. Jaishankar mentioned ongoing projects focused on health and water infrastructure in FSM and Tobalu, funded through the United Nations Development Fund. He reiterated India’s commitment to capacity building and training, aligning with initiatives announced during Prime Minister Modi’s visit.
He proposed the development of a specialized module to enhance the professionalism and capacity of people in the Pacific Islands, allowing them to gain experience in India on prioritized subjects over a specific period.
Additionally, he shared plans for a space technology application center in Papua New Guinea and a sustainable coastal and ocean research institute at the University of the South Pacific. Although progress has been slower than anticipated, he assured that these projects remain a priority.
Leave a Comment