External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a message of solidarity and cooperation during the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to fund four community development projects in the Marshall Islands.
Congratulating the Marshall Islands
Jaishankar began by acknowledging the recent successes of the Marshall Islands, including hosting the 10th Micronesian Games and participating in the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Reflecting on the longstanding relationship between India and the Marshall Islands, Jaishankar highlighted the expansion of bilateral ties under the Forum of India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).
Prime Minister Modi’s Commitment
Jaishankar recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the Pacific islands during the third FIPIC summit, emphasizing India’s responsibility to support their sustainable development.
Addressing Common Challenges
Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to addressing common challenges faced by Pacific island nations, such as climate change, natural disasters, poverty alleviation, and healthcare.
Details of the MoU
The MoU signed will enable the implementation of four community development projects in the Marshall Islands, including proposals for desalination units and dialysis machines.
India’s Priorities in Cooperation
Jaishankar outlined India’s priorities in its cooperation with Pacific island nations, stressing areas such as healthcare, infrastructure development, renewable energy, and capacity building.
Conclusion
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,” he said.
