Subhechcha Ganguly 
The 14 members of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation were assured by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that India would be a dependable development partner for tiny island states. In response to China’s efforts to expand its influence in the region, India on Monday unveiled an action plan covering health, renewable energy, and cyber-security to strengthen cooperation with Pacific island states. Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured the leaders of the region that New Delhi will stand by them as a friend.In his speech to the third summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, Modi unveiled the action plan. As the first Indian prime minister to visit Papua New Guinea, Modi took part in a conference with the heads of 14 Pacific island nations.
In his opening remarks, Modi discussed the difficulties that small island nations face, including the effects of climate change, health problems, and obstacles to the supply of goods like food, fuel, fertiliser, and medicines, and he noted that “those whom we considered trustworthy, it turned out that they were not standing by our side in times of need.”
He continued, “During these trying times, an old saying has proven true: ‘A friend in need is a friend indeed.'” He continued, “In Hindi. I’m delighted India supported its pacific island neighbours at this difficult time. He also made mention of the vaccinations, medications, wheat, and sugar that India has sent to its allies.
Although he avoided naming any nations, this was clearly a reference to China, which last year raised concerns in the region by attempting to increase security cooperation with the Pacific island governments. Chinese authorities signed a security agreement with the Solomon Islands in April 2022, which Western officials claimed opened the door for a Chinese military presence there. One of the nations represented at the conference on Monday was Solomon Islands.The co-host of the meeting, Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea, said Modi had “emerged as the leader of the Global South” and congratulated him for championing the concerns of developing nations during India’s G20 chairmanship. Marape urged the audience to be a third powerful voice against the Global North. “I want to take this moment…and ask you to offer a third big voice in the face of the Global North,” she added.
