How are India and Chile Strengthening Their Economic Partnership?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant meeting in Santiago, India and Chile's officials reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing economic ties. With an emphasis on trade, health collaboration, and a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, both nations are poised to deepen their bilateral relations, tapping into new sectors for mutual growth and development.
Key Takeaways
- Meeting between P Kumaran and Claudia Sanhueza focused on enhancing bilateral ties.
- Commitment to a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- Discussed collaboration in health, pharmaceuticals, and traditional medicine.
- Emphasis on simplifying processes for accessing quality medicines.
- Encouragement for Chilean businesses to explore opportunities in India.
Santiago, Nov 13 (NationPress) The Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs, P Kumaran, engaged in discussions with Chile’s Vice Minister of International Economic Affairs, Claudia Sanhueza, on strategies to enhance bilateral ties between India and the South American nation.
The Indian Embassy in Santiago noted that both parties reiterated their dedication to fostering economic collaboration.
The meeting focused on expanding trade, implementing digital public solutions, and exploring avenues for a fair, modern, and mutually advantageous Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two nations.
Kumaran also conversed with Chile's Undersecretary of Health regarding broadening bilateral cooperation in health, pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, and yoga.
Both sides highlighted the necessity of streamlining registration processes to access quality and affordable medicines and emphasized collaboration on joint Research and Development (R&D) in health sciences.
In addition, Kumaran interacted with members of the Chilean business sector, discussing opportunities to boost bilateral trade and investment in minerals, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and agriculture.
He encouraged Chilean entrepreneurs to visit India to explore the vast opportunities within its dynamic market, reaffirming India’s commitment to advancing the economic partnership by accelerating CEPA negotiations.
Earlier this week, India and Chile conducted their 9th Foreign Office Consultations in Santiago, agreeing to bolster cooperation in vital areas such as trade, investment, connectivity, health, pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, science and technology, mining, defense, civil nuclear technologies, education, agriculture, and cultural exchanges.
India urged Chile to contemplate long-term agreements for mineral resource supply. During Monday’s meeting, officials from both nations agreed to diversify bilateral relations into new and emerging sectors such as digital public infrastructure, innovation, and green energy, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
The MEA noted, "The discussions also encompassed easing visa processes for Indian professionals and business travelers, particularly the introduction of a multiple-entry visa for business and professionals, as announced by President Boric in April 2025."
The meeting was co-chaired by Kumaran and Rodrigo Olsen, Secretary General of Chile’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Progress on discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Gabriel Boric in April 2025 was also reviewed, including efforts to expedite CEPA negotiations for an early conclusion.
Point of View
I believe that the ongoing discussions between India and Chile are pivotal for both nations. The commitment to enhancing economic ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration reflects a proactive approach towards mutual growth, especially in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)?
CEPA is a trade agreement aimed at enhancing economic cooperation between countries by reducing tariffs and barriers to trade, thus promoting trade and investment.
How does this partnership benefit India?
This partnership opens up new markets for Indian businesses, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and renewable energy, fostering economic growth.
What areas of collaboration were discussed?
Key areas include trade, health, pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine, digital public infrastructure, and green energy.
Why is easing visa processes important?
Easing visa processes will facilitate smoother travel for business professionals, enhancing opportunities for collaboration and investment.
What is the significance of the 9th Foreign Office Consultations?
These consultations signify the commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral ties and explore new areas of cooperation.
