New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) The Ambassador of Chile to India, Juan Angulo, highlighted the significance of India in the global landscape on Monday, emphasizing that it is essential for nations like India to serve as mediators across various sectors of the international agenda.

In a conversation with IANS, Angulo commended India's leadership during its G20 presidency, calling it "very substantial and important." He noted that Chile has engaged in the Global South initiatives that occurred in previous years.

When asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's influence on global perspectives regarding critical issues, the ambassador stated: "We find it vital that countries like India have a voice on the global stage. India is an emerging nation from the south, and its growing relative importance in the international sphere is evident. This is reflected in the increasing number of visits by international leaders to India; India's leadership in the G20 was indeed very substantial. Our participation in the Global South initiatives organized by India at the highest levels underscores this importance. Hence, we believe it is crucial for countries like India to act as intermediaries in several areas of the international agenda.

Angulo expressed Chile's backing for India's ambition to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), describing multilateralism as "very important" for addressing numerous contemporary challenges.

"India aspires to become a permanent member of the Security Council, and Chile is committed to supporting this ambition. We consider multilateralism essential, and as a medium-sized country, we believe it is the best means to tackle many of the pressing issues of our time. However, it is also crucial to reevaluate multilateralism in terms of accountability and effectiveness; the global governance system should better reflect today's realities rather than those of 70 or 80 years ago. We advocate for a reformed United Nations system to effectively address contemporary challenges.

When queried about the UN's relevance in today’s world, particularly regarding its perceived inaction in conflicts in Ukraine, Iran, and Venezuela, he remarked: "I do not believe the UN is irrelevant. It has significant responsibilities, and it is crucial for international organizations to maintain peace and prosperity across the globe.

Ambassador Angulo pointed out that leaders from the European Union are set to visit India for Republic Day celebrations, indicating ongoing efforts to strengthen trade agreements.

Regarding German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's recent visit, he stated: "Germany plays a crucial role within the European Union and is also a key global player. I am pleased to see India enhancing its relationships. Leaders from the European Union are expected to arrive for the Republic Day celebrations, and there are indications that the free trade agreement between India and the EU may be finalized soon. We are actively working together to strengthen trade agreements and diplomatic visits, which is very promising.

Earlier that day, PM Modi and Chancellor Merz engaged in delegation-level discussions at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar, focusing on expanding cooperation across various sectors. The two leaders also enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the International Kite Festival at the Sabarmati Riverfront, showcasing the cultural richness of the annual event.

Chancellor Merz arrived in India on Monday with the goal of further enhancing bilateral relations.