India and Fiji Strengthen Defense and Maritime Cooperation

India and Fiji conducted a series of high-level diplomatic meetings in New Delhi between September 28 and October 1, 2026, to expand bilateral defense and maritime cooperation. Mason Smith, Fiji's Permanent Secretary for Defence and Veterans Affairs, first met with India's Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on September 28 during the second India-Fiji Bilateral Joint Working Group. The two officials focused on increasing collaboration within the defense industry and reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and secure Indo-Pacific.

On October 1, Smith continued these discussions in a meeting with India's Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth. The talks centered on capacity building, training, and defense industry engagement. During his visit, Smith also visited the National War Memorial to pay tribute to Indian soldiers, describing the visit as a solemn occasion to remember their courage and sacrifice.

These defense talks follow broader diplomatic efforts to deepen ties. On September 8, India's High Commissioner to Fiji, Suneet Mehta, met with Fiji's Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica to discuss partnerships in trade, business, health, and agriculture. Separately, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met with a bipartisan U.S. House of Representatives delegation led by Chairman Brian Mast on September 28 to discuss the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership following the conclusion of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026.