(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita landed in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on Monday to join the country’s big 50th Independence Day celebrations. He’s stepping in to represent Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the events, strengthening ties between India and Papua New Guinea.
In an excited post on X (formerly Twitter), Margherita shared: “Glad to arrive in Port Moresby on my first official visit to Papua New Guinea. Looking forward to joining the 50th Independence Day celebrations, representing Honble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji.” This marks a key moment in India-Papua New Guinea relations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the visit on Saturday, noting that the Papua New Guinea government invited Margherita for the commemorative events on September 16. During his trip, he plans to hold bilateral meetings with Papua New Guinea’s political leaders. He’ll also connect with the Indian diaspora and local business community to boost cooperation.
This visit builds on the momentum from the historic 3rd Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), which PM Modi chaired in Port Moresby back in May 2023. It offers a fresh chance for India to deepen engagement with Pacific Island Countries (PICs), as the MEA pointed out.
The timing couldn’t be better—Margherita’s arrival follows the Indian Navy band’s lively performance at a military tattoo for Papua New Guinea’s Independence Day festivities. Earlier this month, the Indian Navy’s indigenous ASW Corvette INS Kadmatt docked in Port Moresby to take part in the celebrations. According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), this highlights the growing friendship and strong maritime partnership between India and Papua New Guinea.
Overall, the trip underscores India’s commitment to fostering closer bonds in the Pacific region through diplomacy, culture, and defense ties.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
