Shri Pabitra Margherita, Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, concluded his official visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini, the Kingdom of Lesotho, and South Africa on July 25, 2025. The tour marked a significant moment in India's foreign policy, as it underscored the country's commitment to fostering strong bilateral relationships with its African counterparts.
During his visit to the Kingdom of Eswatini, MoS (PM) engaged in productive discussions with His Majesty King Mswati III and His Excellency the Rt. Hon'ble Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, exploring avenues for cooperation in trade, capacity building, health, and education. He also held bilateral meetings with senior officials of the Eswatini Government, delving into areas such as natural resources and energy.
In the Kingdom of Lesotho, MoS (PM) paid courtesy calls on His Majesty King Letsie III and met with his counterpart, Prime Minister Samuel Matekane. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in digital solutions was signed during this visit, highlighting India's commitment to sharing successful technologies that can drive transformation.
The highlight of MoS (PM)'s South African leg was the G20 Development Ministers' Meeting (DMM), held at Kruger National Park from July 24-25, 2025. As part of this event, he led a delegation and engaged in meaningful discussions with his counterparts from France, the UK, Russia, and the Netherlands on key issues such as combating illicit financial flows and social protection systems.
During the plenary session, MoS (PM) underscored India's achievements in these areas and emphasized the need to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. He also stressed the importance of taking forth key outcomes from India's G20 presidency.
The visit to South Africa marked an important milestone in India's efforts to strengthen its relationships with African nations and promote cooperation on regional and global issues.
Key Highlights:
MoS (PM) engaged in bilateral meetings with senior officials of the Eswatini Government, exploring avenues for cooperation in trade, capacity building, health, and education.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the Kingdom of Lesotho on cooperation in digital solutions.
India's Ministerial Declaration at the G20 Development Ministers' Meeting (DMM) emphasized the need to combat illicit financial flows and promote social protection systems.
The visit underscores India's commitment to fostering strong bilateral relationships with African nations and promoting international cooperation on regional and global issues.