India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, recently concluded a significant visit to Papua New Guinea on September 16, where he engaged in comprehensive discussions with Prime Minister James Marape. Their talks focused on various facets of the bilateral relationship, exploring new avenues to strengthen the bond between the two nations.
During his visit, Mr. Margherita proudly represented Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the celebratory events in Port Moresby, honoring Papua New Guinea’s momentous 50th anniversary of independence. Adding to the goodwill, the President of India extended heartfelt greetings to Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, the Governor-General of Papua New Guinea, on this golden jubilee. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also conveyed his congratulations to his Papua New Guinea counterpart, Justin Tkatchenko, marking a strong show of diplomatic camaraderie.
The Minister’s visit, initiated at the invitation of the Papua New Guinean government, was a testament to the growing partnership. His meeting with Prime Minister Marape included delivering warm greetings from the Indian government for the nation’s independence milestone. Both leaders delved into extensive discussions, strategizing on how to mutually strengthen and expand the bilateral relationship.
Further highlighting the robust ties, the Indian Naval Ship Kadmatt actively participated in Papua New Guinea’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, including a grand fleet review held between August 30 and September 8. In Port Moresby, Mr. Margherita himself was a distinguished guest at several commemorative events, notably the moving Flag Raising Ceremony at Independence Hill.
Leveraging the occasion, the Minister of State also held brief, impactful meetings with other regional dignitaries. These included Wesley Simina, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, and Manoa Kamikamica, Deputy Prime Minister of Fiji. Mr. Margherita also shared on social media platform X his pleasure at meeting the Australian Prime Minister, AlboMP, during the PNG at 50 celebrations.
A significant highlight of the visit was Mr. Margherita’s address to the Indian diaspora at an event hosted by the High Commission of India in Port Moresby. He reiterated the Indian government’s unwavering dedication to the community’s well-being and lauded their valuable role in strengthening the ties between India and Papua New Guinea.
In his capacity as Minister of State for Textiles, Mr. Margherita also engaged in productive discussions with Papua New Guinea’s business leaders, including prominent textile entrepreneurs. These meetings aimed to foster economic collaboration and explore potential trade opportunities.
This high-level visit builds upon the momentum generated by the historic 3rd Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), which Prime Minister Modi chaired in May 2023, also held in Port Moresby. The recent engagement by the Minister of State reinforces India’s commitment to sustained interaction with leaders across the Pacific Island Countries.