Koror, Palau — India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, will visit the Republic of Palau on January 16 as part of a diplomatic mission aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and regional cooperation under India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision.

In Palau, Minister Margherita will attend the swearing-in ceremony of President Surangel Whipps Jr., who begins his second term in office. The visit also includes meetings with Palauan leadership to discuss ongoing and future development projects supported by India. These discussions are expected to focus on strengthening collaborative efforts in areas of mutual interest.

The visit is part of a broader diplomatic tour that includes the Philippines and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). It follows the 3rd Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Summit, chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Papua New Guinea in May 2023, which emphasized India’s commitment to deeper engagement with Pacific Island Countries (PICs).

Minister Margherita’s trip to Palau is intended to reinforce India’s partnerships in the Pacific region, with a focus on sustainable development and regional stability. This visit marks a continuation of India’s efforts to expand its outreach and strengthen its position as a partner in addressing the shared challenges of the Indo-Pacific.

The engagement is expected to further solidify diplomatic ties between India and Palau, reflecting mutual interest in fostering regional collaboration.