Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita is set to embark on his first official foreign visit to five countries from August 15 to 24. During this tour, he will travel to the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama, and Trinidad & Tobago.
This significant visit aims to strengthen India’s diplomatic ties and explore new areas of cooperation with these nations in the Latin American and Caribbean regions.
The journey begins with a two-day visit to the Dominican Republic on August 15-16. Here, Margherita will attend the formal swearing-in ceremony of President-elect Luis Abinader and engage with members of the Indian diaspora. This visit underscores the growing relationship between India and the Dominican Republic, marked by mutual respect and shared interests.
Following this, Margherita will head to Guatemala from August 17-19. During his stay, he will meet with President Cesar Bernardo Arevalo de Leon and hold a bilateral meeting with Foreign Minister Carlos Ramiro Martinez.
The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Margherita will also interact with members of the Chamber of Industry of Guatemala and the Committee of Agricultural, Commercial, Industrial, and Financial Associations (CACIF). Additionally, he will visit Antigua, a UNESCO Heritage city, reflecting India’s appreciation for Guatemala’s rich cultural heritage.
On August 19, Margherita will make a brief visit to El Salvador, where he is scheduled to meet President Nayib Bukele and Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill T. The visit aims to bolster bilateral relations, with discussions likely to cover areas such as trade, technology, and cultural exchanges. Margherita will also engage with the Indian diaspora, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
Margherita’s tour will then take him to Panama from August 20-22. In Panama, he will engage in delegation-level talks with Foreign Minister Javier Martinez and meet with President Jose Raul Mulino.
A highlight of the visit will be his tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at the University of Panama, symbolising India’s enduring commitment to peace and non-violence.
Margherita will also visit the Panama Canal and the Panama Pacifico Free Trade Zone, key hubs of international trade, to explore opportunities for enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries.
The final leg of Margherita’s tour will be in Trinidad & Tobago from August 23-24. Here, he will meet with Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley and Foreign & CARICOM Affairs Minister Dr. Amery Browne.
The discussions are expected to focus on deepening India’s engagement with the Caribbean nation, particularly in areas such as trade, education, and cultural exchange. Margherita will also interact with the Indian community, underscoring India’s commitment to its diaspora.
This visit by Margherita is a clear indication of India’s intent to strengthen its ties with the Latin American and Caribbean regions. The tour offers an opportunity to explore new areas of mutual interest and to further India’s global diplomatic presence. The visit also reflects India’s commitment to fostering strong, multifaceted relationships with countries across the globe.
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