Mr. Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs, visited the Philippines, along with the Pacific Island countries of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), from 14-21 January 2025. This visit aimed to strengthen bilateral ties in line with India’s Act East Policy and its broader Indo-Pacific vision.
Key Highlights of the Visit
Philippines
The visit began on 14 January by paying floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi by Minister Pabitra Margherita marking an important milestone in the ongoing celebrations of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During the visit, Margherita held meetings with the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Enrique A. Manalo, and the President, H.E. Mr. Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. Discussions covered a wide range of topics to review the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and explore opportunities to further expand and deepen ties.
Palau
At the invitation of the Palau Government, the Minister of State for External Affairs attended the inauguration of H.E. Mr. Surangel Whipps Jr. as President for his second term, H.E. Mr. Raynold Oilouch as the new Vice President, and the 12th Constitutional Government of the Republic of Palau on 16 January.
The Minister also met the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea H.E. Mr. James Marape, Foreign Minister of Japan H.E. Mr. Takeshi Iwaya, Foreign and Trade Minister of the Republic of Marshal Islands (RMI) H.E. Mr. Kalani Kaneko, among others during the inauguration ceremony.
In his discussions with the Palau President, both sides reviewed bilateral relations and explored ways to further strengthen development cooperation between the two countries.
He presented 12 water tanks for rainwater harvesting to the Governor of the Island as a gift from the Government of India. This marked the first-ever visit by the Minister of State for External Affairs to Palau.
Federated States of Micronesia (FSM)
In the FSM, Margherita held a meeting with the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Lorin S. Robert, and paid a call on President H.E. Mr. Wesley W. Simina, accompanied by Vice President H.E. Mr. Aren B. Palik and several Cabinet members.
This marked the first-ever Ministerial visit from India to the FSM, with both sides engaging in extensive discussions on strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing development cooperation.
United States territory of Guam
During a brief stopover in Guam on 21 January, Margherita interacted with representatives of the Indian community, with the Governor of Guam, H.E. Mrs. Lou Leon Guerrero, in attendance.
