New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo, the Ambassador of Colombia to India, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "leader capable of filling gaps" and noted that under his guidance, India is stepping into the role of a global leader.

He mentioned that India is on the path to becoming the third-largest economy, a feat that seemed unimaginable in the past.

In an exclusive chat with IANS, Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo also discussed the strengthening of India-Colombia relations, the reciprocal tariffs from the US, and the popularity of Indian cinema in Colombia, among other subjects.

Here are some highlights from the interview:

IANS: How do you view India's international stature under PM Modi?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: Prime Minister Modi enjoys immense respect globally. One glance at him reveals wisdom, pragmatism, and dependability. Globally, he is increasingly seen as a leader capable of addressing gaps that others have often overlooked.

His efforts have significantly elevated India's image, establishing it as both a regional power and an emerging global leader.

Initiatives like the G20 Summit, the Global Biofuels Alliance, and the International Solar Alliance showcase India's proactive engagement in global matters. Under PM Modi's leadership, the world acknowledges India's strong and positive stance.

I am optimistic that India will soon achieve its goal of being the world's third-largest economy — a target that now appears achievable, especially given the progress made in the last decade.

IANS: What is your perspective on PM Modi as a global leader?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: PM Modi is recognized worldwide for his dedication to fostering a stable and peaceful environment, a challenging task in today’s world. His leadership in forums like BRICS has been exceptional.

Colombia resonates with many of PM Modi's ideals regarding building a more equitable world, reforming financial institutions, and ensuring global peace and stability for business and welfare to thrive.

We also share India's commitment to tackling climate change and championing clean energy. India has emerged as a leader in this arena, and Colombia is eager to deepen collaboration. There are many shared values between our nations, and PM Modi is undoubtedly a global leader.

IANS: What are the prospects for trade and investment between India and Colombia?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: We currently have substantial opportunities, especially amid a global trade war characterized by tariffs. Reliable partners are essential, and I believe that India and Colombia possess great potential in this area. Currently, our bilateral trade is approximately $4.7 billion annually. There is ample room for expansion.

For instance, Colombia exports over $3 billion in goods to India, while India's exports to Colombia are around $1.4 billion. Numerous Indian enterprises are already exporting to Colombia, particularly in pharmaceuticals, three-wheelers, services, and technology.

Conversely, Colombia primarily sends energy products such as oil and thermal coal to India. This illustrates that our economies are complementary, providing significant opportunities for enhanced cooperation. We are pleased to see prominent Indian firms investing in Colombia.

Colombia's network of free trade agreements allows access to over 1.5 billion consumers globally, presenting a tremendous opportunity for Indian companies to establish operations in Colombia and leverage this network. There is undeniable potential for growth, and in these times, finding trustworthy partners is crucial — something both India and Colombia exemplify.

IANS: Do India and Colombia have the ability to elevate their bilateral relationship?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: We are diligently working to bolster our bilateral relationship through significant political exchanges. In April 2023, we were honored to host External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar — the first-ever visit by an Indian Foreign Minister to Colombia. This was a landmark moment, and since then, we have been crafting a constructive agenda together.

Recently, we also welcomed the visit of P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) at India's Ministry of External Affairs, opening new avenues for collaboration. In recent years, we have signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and hosted visits from two Colombian vice ministers to India.

We are collaborating in areas such as technical cooperation through India's esteemed Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme. There is also considerable potential in the audiovisual sector, with a recently signed agreement promoting joint film and media productions between Indian and Colombian firms.

Our ties are evolving not only in politics and trade but also in cultural and cooperative dimensions.

IANS: What are your thoughts on the reciprocal tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: Naturally, we are encountering difficulties due to the tariff policies established during Trump's administration. Both India and Colombia have felt the impact of elevated tariffs. While this poses a challenge, it also creates opportunities for countries like ours to forge new alliances and explore different tariff structures.

This trade war is not permanent; it will eventually change. For now, it gives us the opportunity to identify new partners and strengthen cooperation.

Currently, our bilateral trade primarily consists of oil and thermal coal from Colombia, alongside two-wheelers, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals from India. However, there is significant potential for growth. Colombia can enhance its exports to India, and India has a vast market potential in Colombia.

Geographically, Colombia is strategically placed at the northern edge of South America, providing access to both the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans. Bogota's airport ranks first in Latin America for passenger and cargo movement, establishing it as a major regional hub.

Companies operating in Colombia recognize it as one of the most stable economies and political environments in the region. I believe this situation will continue to improve, and though there are challenges presently, both our nations can discover new opportunities, particularly through differential tariff arrangements.

IANS: Did Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's recent visit to Colombia involve an official invitation?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: Yes, he was in Colombia, but it was a personal trip. It was not organized or facilitated by our embassy or the Indian embassy. It was solely a personal initiative.

IANS: Is Indian cinema popular in Colombia?

Victor Hugo Echeverri Jaramillo: Indian cinema enjoys popularity not only in Colombia but worldwide. Colombians are drawn to India's distinctive storytelling approach. Movies like RRR have received an enthusiastic response, but the most beloved in Colombia is Life of Pi.

We hope that more Indian filmmakers will consider Colombia as a filming destination. In Cartagena, we provide excellent incentives for filmmakers. There is also a shared spirit — something joyful and expressive — between Latin and Indian cultures that can inspire exceptional co-productions in cinema and audiovisual arts.