India commits to enhancing cooperation with Pacific partners: S Jaishankar

India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fund four community development projects in the Marshall Islands.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Jaishankar reflected on the longstanding relationship between India and Marshall Islands, Jaishankar highlighted the expansion of bilateral ties under the Forum of India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). “India and the Republic of Marshall Islands share a long history of friendly bilateral relations which has expanded over the years, including under the aegis of the Forum of India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).”

The MoU marks a milestone in the expanding bilateral ties between India and the Marshall Islands, which have grown under the FIPIC framework. Jaishankar highlighted the shared challenges faced by both nations, including climate change, natural disasters, poverty alleviation, and healthcare.

“We are also working on the proposals regarding desalination units and dialysis machines for the Republic of Marshall Islands. We believe that today’s MoU will enable the implementation of four community development projects” said MEA Jaishankar.

The External Affairs Minister outlined key focus areas for cooperation, including healthcare infrastructure, affordable medicines, education, capacity building, renewable energy, and clean water facilities. These priorities align with India’s broader strategy to deepen engagement with Indo-Pacific partners.

Jaishankar also congratulated the Marshall Islands on recent achievements, including hosting the 10th Micronesian Games and participating in the International Day of Yoga celebrations.

He said, “We celebrated the 10th International Day of Yoga last month. I thank Excellency, President Doctor Hilda Hain, for presiding over the celebrations held in Majuro.”

Concluding his address, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening its engagement with Indo-Pacific partners. “India is always ready to do more with our Indo-Pacific partners.”