How is India Enhancing Health and Defence Ties with Guatemala?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Strengthening health cooperation between India and Guatemala.
- Donation of 650 prosthetic limbs to benefit Guatemalan citizens.
- Enhanced defense collaboration, including space technology.
- Celebration of 53 years of diplomatic relations.
- Focus on sustainable development and global peace.
Guatemala City, Oct 15 (NationPress) In a significant move aimed at bolstering cooperation between India and Guatemala across vital sectors, Indian Ambassador to Guatemala, Raj Kumar Singh, engaged in a series of meetings with Guatemalan ministers to explore avenues for enhancing collaboration in the defence and health domains.
Singh convened with Guatemalan Minister of Public Health and Social Assistance, Joaquin Barnoya, to fortify health cooperation between the two nations.
The discussions emphasized expanding partnerships in biotechnology, medical supplies, Ayurveda, the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM-POSHAN), medical tourism, and affordable generics under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
Additionally, Singh informed the Minister about plans to donate 650 custom-made prosthetic limbs to Guatemala.
Earlier, Singh met with Minister of National Defence, Henry David Saenz Ramos, to discuss enhancing defence relations, including cooperation in space technology, early warning systems, capacity building, defence procurements, and humanitarian initiatives.
This partnership traces back to the cordial diplomatic relations established in 1972.
In May, the Indian Embassy, in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guatemala, celebrated the 53rd anniversary of their diplomatic relations with a special event in Guatemala City.
According to the Indian Embassy, the celebration drew around 200 distinguished guests, including members of the diplomatic corps, senior officials from various ministries, esteemed dignitaries, business leaders, and friends of India.
This event highlighted the strengthening ties between India and Guatemala, built on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a commitment to global peace and sustainable development.
As part of India's ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive humanitarian health assistance, a confirmation letter was formally handed over to the Ministry of Defence of Guatemala for the organization of an artificial limb fitment camp.
The proposed camp is set to last approximately 50 days and aims to provide over 600 prosthetic limbs to beneficiaries in Guatemala.