Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margarita concluded an eight-day diplomatic tour across the Philippines, the Republic of Palau, and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), marking a significant step in India’s Indo-Pacific engagement.
The visit, which began on January 14, included high-level discussions with the leadership of all three nations. In a landmark achievement, Margarita became the first Indian minister to visit Micronesia, where he met President Wesley W. Simina and Vice President Aren B. Palik. They explored avenues to bolster bilateral relations and discussed issues of mutual interest with Foreign Secretary Lorin S. Robert.
In Palau, Margarita attended the swearing-in of President Surangel Whipps Jr.’s second term and reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening ties during talks with Foreign Minister Kaleb Udui Jr. Earlier in the Philippines, he held fruitful discussions with President Bongbong Marcos to enhance the India-Philippines partnership.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that the visit aligns with India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision, fostering deeper ties with the region.The strengthening of bilateral relations is expected to enhance trade opportunities for northeastern regions like Guwahati, which could benefit from increased connectivity and export potential to the Indo-Pacific region. Local entrepreneurs in Guwahati see this as an opportunity to expand their reach in textiles, handicrafts, and agro-products.