New Delhi [India]: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar extended his congratulations to the Republic of Nauru on their Independence Day on Friday.
Warm greetings to FM Lionel Rouwen Aingimea, the Government and the people of the Republic of Nauru on their Independence Day.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) January 31, 2025
Look forward to further strengthening our friendship in the Indo-Pacific.
🇮🇳 🇳🇷 @DFATNauru pic.twitter.com/KWFBudkSE9
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), EAM Jaishankar stated:
“Warm greetings to FM Lionel Rouwen Aingimea, the Government and the people of the Republic of Nauru on their Independence Day. Look forward to further strengthening our friendship in the Indo-Pacific.”
India-Nauru Bilateral Ties
Relations between India and Nauru remain cordial and friendly. According to the Indian High Commission in Canberra, India has been a strong development partner for Nauru, with its assistance well recognized.
Notably, India was among the first countries to propose Nauru’s independence at the UN in the early 1960s, a move that was supported by the then USSR. Due to this historical support, Nauru holds a special regard for India.
Key Developments in India-Nauru Relations
- Pharmacopoeial Cooperation (September 2024): India and Nauru signed an MoU on Pharmacopoeial cooperation, focusing on medicine regulation and information exchange.
- Medical Aid (November 2023): India dispatched its second consignment of Haemo-Dialysis machines to four Pacific Island nations, including Nauru, fulfilling a pledge made at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC III) Summit.
India’s Support to Pacific Island Nations
During PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Papua New Guinea in 2023 to co-chair the FIPIC III Summit, he reaffirmed India’s commitment to the region, stating:
“During these challenging times, an old saying has proven true: ‘A friend in need is a friend indeed.’ 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… Whether it’s digital technology or space technology; health security or food security; climate change or environmental conservation—we are with you in every way.”
India’s growing engagement with Nauru and the Pacific Island nations underscores its commitment to strengthening Indo-Pacific partnerships and enhancing regional cooperation.