India continued strengthening its diplomatic outreach in Central America as Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita held high-level meetings in Honduras and Costa Rica aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation and cultural engagement.
During his official visit to Honduras, Margherita met Yasser Handal Carcamo, the country’s Secretary of Culture, Arts and Heritage. The discussions centered on expanding collaboration in fields such as arts, wellness, yoga, cinema, and cultural exchange initiatives. Both sides emphasized the importance of stronger people-to-people connections as a foundation for long-term diplomatic relations.
The minister shared details of the meeting on social media, highlighting the mutual interest in building cultural partnerships between the two nations. His visit also marked the first ministerial-level trip from India to Honduras following the formation of the country’s new government earlier in 2026. Margherita stated that the visit was intended to deepen cooperation and open new channels for engagement between the two countries.
Before arriving in Honduras, the Indian minister completed an important diplomatic visit to Costa Rica, where he attended the inauguration ceremony of newly elected President Laura Fernandez. During his stay, he participated in several official meetings and interacted with members of the Indian diaspora living in the country.
One of the key engagements in Costa Rica included discussions with Paula Bogantes Zamora, the Minister of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications. The leaders explored opportunities to strengthen ties through business support, skill development programs, and collaborative development projects. Both countries reportedly expressed interest in building a more meaningful and strategic partnership in the coming years.
Margherita also held talks with Costa Rican Foreign Minister Manuel Tovar. Their discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation and promoting shared democratic values, multilateralism, and a rules-based international system.
The minister additionally participated in cultural and environmental initiatives during his visit. He inaugurated the “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” Wall at the University for Peace in San Jose, symbolizing India’s philosophy of global unity and harmony. He also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and praised his enduring message of peace and non-violence.
As part of an environmental campaign, Margherita planted a sapling under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility on the global stage.
