India And Chile Start Talks On New Trade Agreement

India and Chile have announced the launch of negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement, marking a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors. The decision was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font, who is currently on a five-day state visit to India.

Prime Minister Modi described Chile as an “important friend and partner” in Latin America, highlighting the growing cooperation between the two nations. “Despite the vast oceans separating us, nature has linked us with unique similarities,” Modi remarked, emphasising the deep connection shared by the two countries through the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

The discussions during the visit were on enhancing collaboration in areas such as trade, defence, critical minerals, space, health, and renewable energy. Modi noted that India is eager to share its experience in digital public infrastructure, railways, and other sectors with Chile, particularly to help bolster the Latin American nation’s growth. He also welcomed the expansion of mutual trade and investment, stressing that untapped potential remains for deeper cooperation.

Both leaders focused on the strategic importance of critical minerals, with Modi stating that they aim to establish resilient supply and value chains in this area. In agriculture, the two sides agreed to explore opportunities to ensure food security by combining their respective capabilities.

The defence sector was another focal point of the discussions, with both leaders agreeing to further deepen their cooperation. Modi emphasised the importance of creating defence industrial manufacturing and supply chains that cater to the specific needs of both countries. The two sides also committed to increasing efforts to tackle common challenges such as organised crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism.

On the global stage, both India and Chile called for the resolution of tensions and disputes through dialogue, advocating for the reform of international institutions such as the United Nations Security Council to better address global challenges.

The visit also saw the signing of agreements on cultural exchange and the streamlining of the visa process between the two countries. Efforts to promote student exchanges were also discussed, with the aim of fostering deeper cultural and academic ties.

Prime Minister Modi noted that President Boric’s visit has created “a new energy and enthusiasm” in the relations between India and Chile, which will provide new momentum and direction to bilateral cooperation and strengthen ties within the Latin American region.

(With text inputs from PTI.)