KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia– Pabitra Margherita, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday on the sidelines of the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in Kuala Lumpur.
“Delighted to meet U.S. Secretary of State @secrubio on the sidelines of the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia,” Margherita posted on X after their meeting.
Earlier in the day, Margherita held bilateral talks with Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Prak Sokhonn. The two leaders discussed a range of issues, including heritage conservation and development cooperation. Margherita also thanked Cambodia for its support of India’s efforts in combating terrorism.
“Delighted to have a meeting with Prak Sokhonn, Deputy PM and Foreign Minister of Cambodia, on the sidelines of the ASEAN-India FMM in Malaysia,” Margherita wrote on X. “Discussed our multifaceted bilateral relations, from heritage conservation to development partnership. Also reflected on my recent visit to Cambodia and appreciated their support in India’s fight against terrorism.”
On Thursday, Margherita met with ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn to discuss progress on the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He acknowledged Hourn’s leadership and dedication in advancing the implementation of key initiatives between ASEAN and India.
Additional meetings were held with Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono, and Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Theresa P. Lazaro. In his conversation with Lazaro, Margherita highlighted the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and the Philippines and expressed appreciation for the Philippines’ continued support against terrorism.
Earlier that day, Margherita co-chaired the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting with Secretary Lazaro. A key outcome of the session was the adoption of the new ASEAN-India Plan of Action for 2026–2030, aimed at deepening cooperation and enhancing the strategic partnership.
“Adopted a new ASEAN-India Plan of Action for 2026–2030 to further expand cooperation and strengthen our comprehensive strategic partnership,” Margherita noted on X. “As we celebrate the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism, we also explored new avenues to boost people-to-people ties.”
Margherita arrived in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday night at the invitation of Malaysia, the current ASEAN Chair, to participate in the ASEAN-India FMM. (Source: IANS)
