India extends USD 70 million credit line to Fiji, 5 m dollars for development of villages(Update:USD 70 mln)

India on Wednesday announced a 70 million U.S. dollar Line of Credit to Fiji for a co-generation power plant and a five million U.S. dollar fund to develop the island-nation's villages, besides agreeing to expand bilateral defence and security cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Fiji capital Suva this morning, had earlier announced a visa-on-arrival for Fijians and assistance in projects that included a Parliament library and doubling the scholarships and training slots in India for people from Fiji.

The Lines of Credit were part of three agreements signed between the two countries in the presence of the two leaders.

Earlir, Fiji gave a red carpet welcome to Prime Minister Modi. He was received by Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama at Suva International Airport.

The Indian Prime Minister was given a ceremonial guard of honour at the airport after which he attended the traditional welcome ceremony at the Albert Park.

Following the ceremonial reception, Prime Minister Modi said that, "Fiji could serve as a hub for stronger Indian engagement with Pacific Islands."

"I see this visit as an opportunity to renew an old relationship and lay the foundation for a strong partnership in the future," he added.

Prime Minister Modi also addressed the Fijian Parliament, a first by a foreign leader, after parliamentary elections, during which he said that India was prepared to work with Fiji to build a "Digital Fiji".