Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita has said that India’s approach to the Indo-Pacific is based on respect for international law, sovereignty and territorial integrity, freedom of navigation and overflight, lawful commerce, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Speaking at the Dialogue Partner Session of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Koror, Palau yesterday, Mr. Margherita said India sees the Pacific not as a distant region but as an integral part of the shared Indo-Pacific.
The minister also highlighted India’s contribution through the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and Global Biofuel Alliance, and said India was strengthening its humanitarian assistance and disaster relief engagement across the Indo-Pacific.
Mr. Margherita met Tongan Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua on the sidelines of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting and discussed strengthening the India-Tonga partnership. In a social media post, Mr. Margherita said, India deeply values its friendship with Tonga and the shared commitment to the wider Indo-Pacific.
