What Did MoS Pabitra Margherita Discuss with Papua New Guinea PM James Marape?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pabitra Margherita meets with James Marape to strengthen ties.
- Conveys greetings from PM Modi on PNG's independence.
- Focus on enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation.
- Engagement with Indian diaspora is planned.
- Visit continues momentum from PM Modi's earlier trip.
Port Moresby, Sep 15 (NationPress) The Union Minister of State for External Affairs (MoS), Pabitra Margherita, met with James Marape, the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, on Monday. During this meeting, he extended warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea's independence.
MoS Margherita emphasized the dedication of both countries to enhance bilateral and people-to-people connections.
"It was a privilege to meet the Hon‘ble James Marape, Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea. I conveyed heartfelt greetings from PM Shri Narendra Modi ji and the people of India 🇮🇳 on the momentous occasion of #PNGAt50. Our nations are committed to strengthening our bilateral and people-to-people relationships," MoS Margherita shared on X.
Earlier that day, Margherita arrived in Port Moresby for an official visit, where he represents PM Modi at the celebrations commemorating Papua New Guinea's independence.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), during his visit, MoS Margherita is anticipated to engage in bilateral discussions with Papua New Guinea's political leadership. He will also connect with the Indian community and business leaders in the country.
"Following the historic 3rd Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) chaired by PM Shri Narendra Modi in May 2023 in Port Moresby, this visit offers a valuable opportunity to continue our engagement with Pacific Island Countries (PICs)," the MEA noted.
This visit builds on the momentum from PM Modi's significant trip to Papua New Guinea in 2023, during which both nations committed to enhancing their bilateral relations, expanding development partnerships, and improving defense cooperation.
During his visit, PM Modi had hosted the FIPIC III Summit alongside Prime Minister James Marape. Established in 2014, FIPIC encompasses India and 14 Pacific Island Countries (PICs), including the Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.