New Delhi, August 24: India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margerita, will embark on an official visit to Vietnam, Laos PDR, and Palau from August 26 to September 2, 2026. These nations are key partners in India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘Indo-Pacific Vision.’
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the itinerary in a statement. The first leg of the trip, from August 26-27, will take place in Vietnam. During this visit, Margerita will meet with senior leaders of the Vietnamese government to review the progress in bilateral relations. These ties were recently elevated to a ‘better comprehensive strategic partnership’ level during the visit of the General Secretary and President of Vietnam, To Lam, to India. The Minister will also engage with key stakeholders and the Indian community.
Following Vietnam, Margerita will visit Laos PDR from August 28-29, 2026. This trip marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Discussions will focus on enhancing the close and historical ties and strong development partnership with Laos PDR. The Minister will review the progress of ongoing projects, including those aimed at preserving our shared heritage, and will also connect with the Indian community there.
According to the MEA, India shares deep civilizational and cultural ties with the countries of the Mekong region. Vietnam and Laos PDR are significant partners in India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘Indo-Pacific Vision.’ This visit will also emphasize India’s strong commitment to ASEAN unity and centrality, reinforcing the ASEAN-India comprehensive strategic partnership.
In the final phase of the trip, from September 1-2, Margerita will arrive in Palau. He is set to participate in the ‘Pacific Islands Forum’ (PIF) and associated meetings, including a dialogue with PIF leaders. High-level bilateral discussions with Palauan leaders are also on the agenda. This visit will provide India with an opportunity to engage with delegations from PIF member countries and other dialogue partners during the PIF meetings.
This journey is expected to further strengthen and deepen India’s traditionally close and long-standing partnership with the Pacific Island nations, including the Pacific Islands Forum and Palau.
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