Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Chile during the state visit of Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font. Describing Chile as an “important friend and partner” in Latin America, Modi emphasized the growing bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors, including trade, health security, Antarctica exploration, and cultural exchange.
Addressing a joint press conference, Modi highlighted the untapped potential in mutual trade and investment between the two nations. Both leaders announced plans to initiate discussions on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement aimed at boosting trade ties. Modi underscored the importance of collaboration in critical minerals, resilient supply chains, and agricultural cooperation to ensure food security.
India’s willingness to share expertise in digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, railways, and space technology was also emphasized. Modi noted Chile’s strategic position as a gateway to Antarctica and welcomed the signing of a letter of intent to enhance cooperation in this region. The agreement marks a significant step in joint exploration and research efforts.
Health security emerged as another key area of collaboration, with Modi highlighting India’s contributions to Chile’s healthcare sector. Boric echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for India’s reliable partnership in ensuring health security.
Cultural ties between the two nations were celebrated, with Modi lauding Chile’s adoption of November 4 as National Yoga Day. He emphasized the importance of traditional medicine, Ayurveda, and defense cooperation, pointing out efforts to enhance industrial manufacturing and supply chains in the defense sector.
On the global stage, both leaders called for resolving conflicts through dialogue and advocated for reforms in the United Nations Security Council and other international institutions to address contemporary challenges effectively. Modi stressed the shared commitment to global peace and stability.
The Prime Minister also drew attention to the geographical and cultural similarities between India and Chile, citing the Himalayas and the Andes mountains as examples. He highlighted the influence of Indian literature on Chilean Nobel laureate Gabriela Mistral and the growing interest of Chileans in Indian films, cuisine, and classical dances.
Recognizing the Indian diaspora in Chile, Modi thanked the Chilean government for its support and announced agreements on cultural exchange programs and simplified visa processes to foster student exchanges. He expressed optimism that Boric’s visit would infuse new energy into bilateral relations and cooperation across Latin America.
Boric, in turn, emphasized the importance of strengthening commercial ties, investments, and critical mineral cooperation to address global climate change challenges. He highlighted Chile’s efforts to attract Bollywood to its film industry through the “Shoot in Chile” program, aimed at promoting film creation in the country.
Discussing Antarctica, Boric invited Modi to collaborate on research and exploration, emphasizing Chile’s strategic position as a gateway to the region. Several Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged during the visit, including agreements on Antarctica cooperation, cultural exchange programs, and disaster management.
Boric expressed confidence that the agreements signed would pave the way for deeper engagement between the two nations. He concluded by thanking Modi for his leadership in strengthening South-South cooperation and reinforcing bilateral ties. The visit marks a significant milestone in the seven-decade relationship between India and Chile, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration in the years to come.
