Indian Naval Ship Kadmatt arrives in Fiji for goodwill visit

Indian Naval Ship Kadmatt has arrived in the nation for a goodwill visit as part of her three-month deployment.

The port call reflects the deep-rooted historical, cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Fiji, while reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthen maritime cooperation and bilateral relations with friendly foreign countries.

During the visit, INS Kadmatt will host senior officials from the Republic of Fiji Navy to foster professional exchanges to explore avenues of mutual interest.

The ship’s crew will also participate in a range of community outreach programmes, sporting events and cultural exchanges, further strengthening the bonds of friendship and goodwill between the two nations.

"The visit highlights India's vision of ‘MAHASAGAR’ (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Region) and underscores the Indian Navy’s role as a preferred secured partner in the Indian Ocean Region," read a statement issued by the Indian government.

India’s links with Fiji commenced in 1879 when Indian laborers were brought here under indenture system to work on sugar-cane plantations.

Between 1879 and 1916 around 60,553 Indians were brought to Fiji.

"Beginning with early 20th century, Indian traders and others also started arriving in Fiji. In 1920, the indenture system was abolished," read a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Fiji.

Before Fiji’s independence in 1970, India had a post of Commissioner since 1948 to look after the interests of people of Indian origin.

It was later upgraded to High Commissioner after Fiji’s independence in 1970. Fiji’s Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara visited India in 1971 and Prime Minister Indira Gandhi visited Fiji in September 1981.

As per the Embassy website, India-Fiji relations are based on mutual respect, cooperation and strong cultural and people-to-people ties.