Fiji strengthens ties with India in sugar industry
“INDIA’S expertise in the sugar industry is unparalleled, and we are eager to leverage their knowledge and technological advancements to enhance our own sugar production capabilities.”
To enhance bilateral cooperation, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, officiated at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Fiji Sugar Corporation and the National Sugar Institute of Kanpur, India in Suva recently.
After the signing with the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Palaniswamy Karthigeyan, and the FSC chief executive officer, Bhan Singh, Minister Singh extended gratitude to the Indian High Commission for their invaluable contribution to Fiji’s socio-economic development.
“With the signing of this MoU, we embark on a new chapter of collaboration with India, particularly in the vital sector of sugar production,” he said.
Minister Singh underscored the pivotal role played by India in initiatives such as the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), which has facilitated essential projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the Pacific region.
Highlighting India’s commitment to establishing a specialised hospital in Nasinu, the Minister emphasised the profound impact such initiatives would have on healthcare in Fiji.
Turning to agriculture and the sugar sector, Minister Singh highlighted India’s significant contributions, including the supply of hybrid vegetable seeds to bolster agricultural productivity and food security efforts.
He also unveiled plans to collaborate with top Indian sugar mill associations to optimise the efficiency of Fiji’s sugar mills.
Expressing gratitude for India’s support in revitalising railway networks and providing grants to cane farmers, the Minister highlighted the invaluable contributions of Indian experts deployed under various cooperation programs.
Minister Singh reiterated Fiji’s commitment to nurturing its partnership with India for mutual benefit.
(Source: Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry)