How Did PM Modi and Mexico's President Sheinbaum 'Strengthen Relations'?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened bilateral ties between India and Mexico.
- Focus on collaboration in technology and healthcare.
- Significant increase in bilateral trade.
- Emphasis on cultural and people-to-people ties.
- Invitation extended for future visits to enhance relations.
Kananaskis (Canada), June 18 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo met on the sidelines of the G7 summit, where they enhanced the bonds between their nations of the Global South and discussed avenues for increased cooperation.
Sheinbaum shared on social media platform X, stating, "We fortified our relationship." In her post in Spanish, she emphasized that "investments in scientific and technological development" are pivotal for cooperation.
PM Modi echoed this sentiment on X, noting, "We both recognize the vast potential for India-Mexico relations to strengthen in the future, particularly in agriculture, semiconductors, critical minerals, healthcare, and beyond. We also deliberated on enhancing people-to-people connections."
Describing the meeting as a "productive discussion," he personally congratulated Sheinbaum on her landmark electoral victory, marking her as the first female President of Mexico in 200 years.
According to Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, they explored further pathways to deepen India-Mexico collaboration in trade, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, and digital innovation, while also sharing views on essential global and regional matters, including the priorities of the Global South.
This marked the inaugural meeting between PM Modi and Sheinbaum, who assumed the presidency of Mexico last year.
Additionally, PM Modi mentioned his discussions with South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa and Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The relationship between Mexico and India took a significant leap forward during PM Modi's 2016 visit to Mexico, where both nations agreed to elevate their diplomatic ties from a "Privileged Partnership" to a "Strategic Partnership."
Discussions highlighted the burgeoning opportunities in the pharmaceutical sector, where India is poised to supply and produce affordable, quality medicines and products, alongside agricultural and holistic health aspects.
Bilateral trade between Mexico and India reached an impressive $8.6 billion in 2023, with Mexico serving as a crucial trade gateway to Latin America.
A significant development occurred in the field of science and technology when a memorandum of understanding was signed between India's Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Mexico's Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID) during Marcelo Ebrard's visit to New Delhi in 2023.
President Sheinbaum expressed her admiration for India's advancements in technology, innovation, and digital public infrastructure, indicating a strong desire for collaboration in these fields.
PM Modi highlighted the importance of exploring cooperation in areas such as semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum technology, and critical minerals.
The leaders also acknowledged upcoming collaborations between think tanks from both countries and the vibrant cultural and people-to-people ties that will further promote tourism.
PM Modi extended a warm invitation for President Sheinbaum to visit India.