What's the cherry on top of PM Modi's Papua New Guinea visit? THIS 12-step action plan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi topped off his visit to Papua New Guinea, the first of its kind by an Indian premier, with a 12-step action plan that will not only boost the partnership between New Delhi and Port Moresby, but also with Pacific Island countries (PICs) as a whole.

According to Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, the plan will "will fulfill the developmental aspirations of the people of the region and consolidate shared vision of a free, open and prosperous Indo- Pacific." Let us take a look at the 12 brand-new initiatives that India is looking to launch in the region. 

1. An all-expenses paid multi-specialty hospital in Fiji. The facility will be equipped with 100 beds. 
2. Dialysis centres in all 14 Pacific island countries
3. Regional IT and cyber security hub for training in Papua New Guinea 
4. 1000 scholarships over the next five years under 'Sagar Amrut Scholarships' 
5. Jaipur Foot Camp in Papua New Guinea this year. Two camps will be held on an annual basis in other PICs.
6. FIPIC SME development project 
7. Solar projects that will cater to government buildings 
8. Desalination units for better access to drinking water 
9. Supply sea ambulances
10. 24x7 emergency helpline
11. Jan Aushadi kendras 
12. Yoga centres for recreation and well-being 

PM @narendramodi & PM James Marape successfully hosted the FIPIC III Summit in Port Moresby.

PM @narendramodi announced a 12-step action plan to propel 🇮🇳’s partnership with Pacific Island Countries. It will fulfill the developmental aspirations of the people of the region and… pic.twitter.com/SD0RmXFmFH

— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia)

PM Modi says India is 'proud' to be development partner to Pacific Island countries

PM Modi's visionary action plan comes as a relief for Pacific Island nations like Papua New Guinea, whose prime minister said on Monday that the country is a "victim of global powerplay." "We are victims of global powerplay... You (PM Modi) are the leader of Global South. We will rally behind your (India) leadership at global forums," PM James Marape said at the FIPIC summit.

During the forum, PM Modi avered that for the world, PICs might be small island states, but for him, they are large ocean countries that have a lot to offer. "India is proud to be your development partner. You can count on India as a reliable partner. We are ready to share our experiences and capabilities with you without hesitation," he assured.