Will MoS Pabitra Margherita Strengthen India's Ties in Africa?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Pabitra Margherita is heading to Africa from July 18-25 to enhance India's diplomatic relations. This visit spans Eswatini, Lesotho, and South Africa, focusing on bilateral cooperation and participation in the G20 DMM. Discover how this trip aims to strengthen India's ties with African nations and address key development issues.
Key Takeaways
- Pabitra Margherita to visit Eswatini, Lesotho, and South Africa.
- Focus on bilateral cooperation and G20 Development Ministerial Meetings.
- Engagement with regional leaders and the Indian diaspora.
- First ministerial visit to Lesotho in 10 years.
- Strengthening India's ties with African nations.
New Delhi, July 16 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, is poised to embark on an official visit to the African continent from July 18 to 25, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This diplomatic journey includes stops in the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Kingdom of Lesotho from July 18-22, before concluding in the Republic of South Africa from July 23-25.
This visit is integral to India's broader diplomatic initiatives in Africa, aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, discovering new partnership opportunities, and representing India at the forthcoming G20 Development Ministerial Meetings (DMM) in South Africa.
During his time in Eswatini, Minister Margherita will meet with King Mswati III and the Prime Minister. He will also engage in discussions with the Foreign Minister of Eswatini to address matters of mutual interest and assess the progress of bilateral relations, as stated by the MEA.
The discussions are anticipated to encompass various areas such as trade and investment, capacity building, development partnerships, and exchanges between people. The minister will also connect with the Indian diaspora and participate in events that highlight India’s development initiatives in Eswatini. This visit aims to further strengthen the longstanding friendly relations between India and Eswatini, added the ministry.
In Lesotho, Minister Margherita plans to pay a courtesy visit to King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane.
He will conduct bilateral meetings with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, along with key ministers overseeing Information, Communications, Science, Technology & Innovation, Education & Training, and Labour and Employment.
This ministerial visit to Lesotho marks a significant occasion, as it is being undertaken after a decade, the MEA highlighted, recalling the first visit from India to Lesotho by Minister of State (IC) Culture, Tourism & MoS for Civil Aviation, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, on July 9, 2015, as a Special Envoy of the Prime Minister.
Minister Margherita’s activities in South Africa will focus on multilateral engagements as he leads the Indian delegation to the G20 Development Ministerial Meetings (DMM), planned for July 24-25 in Skukuza.
On the sidelines of the summit, he is expected to meet with the South African Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Lydia Ramokgopa, along with other ministers responsible for development and heads of delegations from G20 member states, invited countries, and international organizations.
The minister will also hold bilateral discussions and connect with notable business leaders and members of the Indian community across all three nations.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of Minister Pabitra Margherita's upcoming trip to Africa. This visit not only reflects India's commitment to strengthening ties with its African counterparts but also highlights the importance of multilateral dialogues in addressing global challenges. By fostering bilateral relations and exploring new partnerships, India is positioning itself as a proactive player in international diplomacy.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main objectives of Minister Margherita's visit to Africa?
The main objectives include enhancing bilateral cooperation, exploring new partnership opportunities, and representing India at the G20 Development Ministerial Meetings.
Which countries will Minister Margherita visit?
Minister Margherita will visit the Kingdom of Eswatini, the Kingdom of Lesotho, and the Republic of South Africa.
When is the G20 Development Ministerial Meetings taking place?
The G20 Development Ministerial Meetings will be held on July 24-25 in Skukuza, South Africa.
How will this visit impact India-Africa relations?
This visit is expected to deepen India-Africa relations by fostering dialogue on key issues such as trade, investment, and development partnerships.
What is the significance of the visit to Lesotho after 10 years?
This visit marks a significant diplomatic milestone, as it is the first ministerial visit from India to Lesotho in a decade, reinforcing India's commitment to engaging with its partners.
