Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs, and Textiles [MoS (PM)], paid an official visit to the Independent State of Samoa and the Republic of Naoero from 16 to 22 October 2026.
2. During his visit to Samoa, MoS (PM) was accorded a traditional ‘Ava ceremony by the Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Laʻaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polātaʻivao Fosi Schmidt, and members of his Cabinet. MoS (PM) called on the Prime Minister and discussed cooperation in capacity building, digital development, climate resilience, economic engagement and multilateral issues.
3. MoS (PM) and the Prime Minister of Samoa signed an MoU on the implementation of the SENESE Project which aims to promote the inclusion and development of children and persons with disabilities through improved access to education, healthcare and vocational training.
4. The Prime Minister of Samoa also hosted an official lunch in honour of MoS (PM). MoS (PM) interacted with members of the Indian community in Samoa.
5. During his transit visit to Auckland, MoS (PM) attended a business interaction hosted in his honour by the India New Zealand Business Council (INZBC). The event brought together representatives of the textile and fashion sectors to discuss opportunities for bilateral cooperation. Hon. Mark Mitchell, Minister for Ethnic Communities and Minister for Sport and Recreation of New Zealand, also attended the event. MoS (PM) also participated in Durga Puja celebrations and separately interacted with members of the Indian community.
6. During his visit to Naoero, MoS (PM) called on H.E. David W. R. Adeang, President of the Republic of Naoero, and met separately with Hon. Marcus Stephen, Speaker of the Parliament of Naoero. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, parliamentary exchanges and capacity building.
7. MoS (PM) also interacted with alumni of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) programmes, as well as members of the Indian community, and acknowledged their contribution to strengthening India–Naoero relations.
8. MoS (PM) flagged off a mini-cycling event organised to mark his visit, as part of India’s Quick Impact Project (QIP), ‘Cycling for a Stronger Naoero’, which aims to develop local athletes and promote health through cycling. He visited Naoero’s public hospital and phosphate-mining sites as part of his engagements during the visit.
9. The visit of MOS (PM) reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its partnerships with Samoa and Naoero through development cooperation, capacity building and people-to-people exchanges and including under the framework of the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC). India remains committed to working closely with Pacific Island countries in support of their national development priorities and the shared aspirations of the region.
Government of IndiaMinistry of External Affairs, PR
