MoS Margherita Holds Talks with ACS Chief in Madrid to Strengthen India-Caribbean Relations

Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita held discussions with Noemi Espinoza Madrid, Secretary General of the Association of Caribbean States (ACS), in Madrid, focusing on strengthening India's engagement with the Global South, particularly the Greater Caribbean region. Sharing details of the meeting on social media platform X on Tuesday, Margherita said the discussions centred on India's growing partnership with countries across the Caribbean and opportunities to deepen regional cooperation.

During his visit, the minister also interacted with business representatives from Spain's textile and tourism industries. The discussions explored avenues for expanding India-Spain economic cooperation, including textile trade, sourcing, manufacturing, sustainable textiles, investment and tourism. He also stressed the importance of stronger people-to-people connections between the two countries.

Margherita paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at his statue in Madrid. Remembering the contributions of the Father of the Nation, he said Gandhi's enduring principles of truth and non-violence continue to serve as an inspiration for humanity and promote global peace and harmony. Margherita arrived in the Spanish capital on Monday to attend the 30th Ibero-American Conference Summit. India is set to participate in the multilateral grouping as an Associate Observer.

The Ibero-American Conference brings together 22 member nations, along with 12 Associate Observers and 20 Consultative Observers, providing a platform for dialogue and cooperation on shared regional and international priorities. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the minister's visit will continue until November 5. During his stay, he is expected to hold bilateral discussions with key counterparts on the sidelines of the summit and interact with members of the Indian community living in Madrid.

The MEA has described the visit as an important diplomatic engagement, particularly as India and Spain celebrate their ongoing Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence. The visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to India's engagement with Spain, Caribbean nations and the wider Ibero-American region, while opening further opportunities for cooperation in trade, tourism, culture and technology.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@PmargheritaBJP.