India Steps Up Presence In South Pacific As China Looms Large

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a 12-point action to up India's engagement on a day when the US signed a landmark defence agreement with Papua New Guinea (PNG) to limit China's influence in the South Pacific.

Indian officials said that the action plan was to fulfil the developmental aspirations of the people of the Pacific Island Countries (PIC).

China remained the elephant in the room as PM Modi told the PIC leaders that they could count on India as a reliable partner which supported a free, open and inclusive India-Pacific and also respected the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

While speaking about the issues faced by the Global South like fuel, fertiliser and medicine shortage, PM Modi said, "those whom we considered trustworthy, it turned out that they are not standing by our side in the times of need."

"A friend in need is a friend indeed. I am glad that India stood with its Pacific Island friends during this challenging time. Whether it was vaccines or essential medicines, wheat or sugar, India, in line with its capabilities, has been assisting all partner countries," PM Modi said.

The visit by the PM to PNG, the first by any Indian Prime Minister was significant as it came in the midst of the geopolitical rivalry spurred by China's growing presence in the region that is resource-rich. The US on its part responded with its own defence pact that Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed with James Marape. The pact is aimed at deepening security ties with the Pacific Islands. China last week had warned the US against introducing geopolitical games in the region.

PM Modi's 12-point action plan, included a cardiology super-speciality hospital in Fiji that India will build with assistance and a an IT and cyber security hub in PNG.

"We are ready to share our capabilities and experiences with you without any hesitation. Whether it is digital technology or space technology, whether it is health or food security, whether it is climate change or environmental conservation, we are with you in every way," PM Modi also said.