Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita will visit Papua New Guinea on September 16 to represent Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the island nation’s 50th Independence Day celebrations. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed his participation in commemorative events hosted by the Papua New Guinea government.
During the visit, Margherita will meet with Papua New Guinea’s political leadership and engage in bilateral discussions. He will also interact with the Indian diaspora and local business community. The trip builds on the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit, held in Port Moresby in May 2023, where Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s partnership with Pacific Island Countries.
The celebrations already feature strong Indian participation. Earlier this month, the Indian Navy’s INS Kadmatt arrived in Port Moresby for goodwill activities. The ship and its crew are scheduled to join the official Independence Day parade, cultural programs, and other events. The Navy band also performed at the military tattoo, highlighting India’s growing maritime friendship with Papua New Guinea.
According to the Ministry of Defence, this visit reflects India’s Act East Policy and its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the Indo-Pacific region.
