New Delhi, May 22
In a rare tandem move to minimise Chinese influence, the US and India held parallel Summit meetings with 14 Pacific Island Countries on the same day in the capital of Papua New Guinea (PNG). PM Narendra Modi announced a 12-point action plan concentrated in health, wellness and community development sectors while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, standing in for President Joe Biden, inked pacts in defence and security areas with PNG.
In a special gesture to PM Modi, the New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins flew 9,000 kms to meet him although one half of his schedule – a bilateral with Biden – was called off after the US President flew home from the Japan G7 summit to resolve the US debt crises.
In his remarks to the assembled leaders of the FIPIC (Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation) Summit, PM Modi made an emotional speech that drew a distinction between the approach followed by India and, without naming it, China.
“Those whom we considered trustworthy, it turned out that they were not standing by our side in times of need. During these challenging times.
“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,” he said.
Unveiling the 12-point action plan, PM Modi said India stood ready to share its capabilities and experiences with PIC “without any hesitation” and assured them that “we are with you in every way.”
“For me, you are not small island states, but large ocean countries. It is this vast ocean that connects India with all of you,” added PM Modi.
