Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, began his official visit to the Philippines by paying floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Miriam College in Manila. He also interacted with the college’s students and President, Mrs. Laura Quiambao-del Rosario, on Tuesday (local time).
In a post on X, MoS Margherita shared: “Commenced my official visit to the Philippines with floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi @MiriamCollege in Manila. Pleased to interact with Mrs. Laura Quiambao-del Rosario, President of the college. @MEAIndia”
Earlier, he wrote: “Arrived in Manila on my first official visit. Looking forward to my engagements with the Philippines’ leadership and members of the Indian diaspora as India and the Philippines commemorate 75 years of diplomatic ties. @MEAIndia”
MoS Margherita’s visit to the Philippines is part of a broader official tour from January 14 to 21, encompassing the Republic of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). This visit commemorates the 75th anniversary of India-Philippines diplomatic relations and aims to deepen bilateral ties with these nations.
- Apart from the floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, Margherita is scheduled to meet with members of the Indian diaspora in the Philippines.
- His visit underscores the importance of strengthening India’s relations with the Southeast Asian nation, particularly under India’s Act East Policy.
- On January 16, at the invitation of Palau’s government, Margherita will attend the swearing-in ceremony of President Surangel Whipps Jr., marking his second term.
- Discussions with Palau’s leadership will include India-supported development initiatives.
- On January 18, Margherita will make the first-ever ministerial-level visit from India to the Federated States of Micronesia.
- He will engage with FSM’s leadership to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss areas of mutual cooperation.
Margherita’s visit follows the 3rd Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Papua New Guinea in May 2023. His tour highlights India’s continued focus on fostering partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visit aims to:
- Enhance collaboration with the Philippines, Palau, and FSM.
- Reinforce India’s commitment to its Indo-Pacific vision and Act East Policy.
This multi-nation tour is expected to strengthen India’s strategic and cultural ties with its partners in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands.