Indian Minister to Undertake Official Visit to Samoa, Cook Islands, and Nauru

New Delhi, October 13 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margerita, is set to embark on an official visit to the Pacific island nations of Samoa, Cook Islands, and Nauru from October 16 to 22. During this week-long trip, she will engage in bilateral meetings with the leaders of these countries to discuss enhancing India’s development cooperation in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the visit, highlighting that Margerita will meet with top officials in all three nations. Additionally, she plans to interact with key stakeholders and members of the Indian community. Her itinerary also includes tours of development projects funded by India in these island nations.

This visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Pacific island countries under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). The aim is to deepen political ties and development collaboration with these nations.

The trip follows the third FIPIC summit held in Port Moresby in May 2023, marking another step in advancing cooperation between India and the Pacific island countries.

India’s relations with the Oceania region have grown significantly in recent years. Through its “Act East” policy and FIPIC, India is enhancing strategic, economic, and diplomatic cooperation with Oceania nations.

Oceania comprises 14 independent countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Samoa, Nauru, and the Solomon Islands. India has been increasing diplomatic dialogue with this region. In April 2026, Margerita visited Tuvalu and Vanuatu to discuss collaboration on climate-resilient infrastructure and health.

In the Indo-Pacific region, India and Oceania countries are vital partners in matters of security, maritime safety, and regional stability.