Fijian PM Rabuka Notes US Discontent as India Faces High Tariffs

New Delhi, Aug 27 (PTI) — As tensions rise with the US imposing a hefty 50% tariff on Indian goods, Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka humorously noted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that "somebody is not very happy with you," adding that Modi can "weather those discomforts." Rabuka shared this anecdote during a discussion following his lecture titled 'Ocean of Peace' at the Sapru House, hosted by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA).

The Prime Minister of Fiji arrived in New Delhi on Sunday for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening Fiji's relations with India across various sectors, including maritime security, trade, health, digital technology, and capacity building. On Monday, India and Fiji agreed on an action plan to enhance defense cooperation and to jointly foster a peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, following talks between Modi and Rabuka to deepen overall bilateral cooperation.

Rabuka's 'Ocean of Peace' lecture at ICWA drew questions about his bilateral meetings and discussions on peaceful coexistence with other international leaders. "I have not had any personal interaction with the President of the United States," Rabuka noted, while also mentioning engagements with British and Russian leaders. "Prime Minister Modi echoed our sentiments and the concept when we spoke yesterday," Rabuka added.

The Fijian leader referenced previous discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the concept, emphasizing how global events impact smaller countries like Fiji. "Whatever is happening out there is impacting us," he stated, while acknowledging that the events also affect India's relations with the United States. Rabuka commented on the recent public announcements regarding tariffs and other issues directed at Modi, suggesting that "somebody is not very happy with you, but then you are big enough to weather those discomforts," avoiding further details.

The relationship between New Delhi and Washington has soured after President Donald Trump increased tariffs on Indian imports, introducing an additional 25% duty specifically tied to India's purchase of Russian crude oil. The hefty 50% tariff affecting Indian goods in the US is set to commence on August 27, impacting numerous labor-intensive sectors such as shrimp, apparel, leather, and gems and jewelry.

This marks Rabuka's first visit to India in his current capacity as Prime Minister. Modi and Rabuka engaged in what the Ministry of External Affairs described as "comprehensive and forward-looking discussions" covering the full range of bilateral issues, alongside regional and global topics of mutual concern. A joint statement highlighted Rabuka's advocacy for the 'Ocean of Peace' vision, focusing on peace and stability in the Pacific, with Modi commending Rabuka for his leadership.

Discussing the 'Ocean of Peace' at the ICWA event, Rabuka said, "Our job is to share with the world that we have declared this concept of 'Ocean of Peace' in the Pacific." He urged the United Nations to adopt it and called on regional leaders to embrace it in their dialogues. "In this effort, India is an important partner," Rabuka said, expressing optimism that Fiji and India can realize this vision not only for the Pacific but contribute to global peace and stability.