How is Paraguayan President urging international cooperation to combat the drug mafia?

Mumbai, June 3 (NationPress) The President of Paraguay, Santiago Pena Palacios, met with Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan on Wednesday, advocating for robust international collaboration to combat the drug mafia in Latin America.

During the discussion, the President stressed that Paraguay is not engaged in any conflicts, yet Latin America grapples with severe issues of organized crime and drug trafficking. He pointed out that while Latin America is a significant drug producer, Europe remains the primary consumer.

He urged for global cooperation to tackle the persistent threat posed by the drug mafia.

Emphasizing Paraguay's potential as the 'food basket of Latin America,' the President expressed a desire to forge strong alliances with India in agriculture and green energy sectors.

The President remarked that both nations share numerous common values and interests, laying a firm groundwork for enhanced collaboration in various sectors, according to a statement released by the Raj Bhavan.

President Pena expressed optimism that India, known as the world's fourth-largest economy and the largest democracy, will increasingly assert its influence on the global stage in the coming years.

He recalled that in 1955, during a session of the United Nations General Assembly, Paraguay honored Mahatma Gandhi for his philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and his significant contributions to the global peace and justice movements.

The Governor hosted a warm reception for President Pena upon his arrival at the Raj Bhavan during his inaugural state visit to Maharashtra.

Present at the meeting were Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council Ram Shinde, Minister of Protocol Jaykumar Rawal, Chief of Staff Maj Gen Bikramdeep Singh, Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Area Rear Admiral Anil Jaggi, among others.

During his three-day visit to India, President Santiago Pena expressed his admiration for the experiences he encountered.

Accompanying the President were Foreign Minister Ruben Ramirez Lezcano, Ambassador of Paraguay in India Fleming Raul Duarte Ramos, National Senator Natalicio Chase, Member of Parliament Miguel del Puerto, Governor of Amambay Juan Acosta, and other officials.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met and welcomed President Pena, expressing on X, “It was a pleasure to engage with him. Our enriching dialogue explored promising avenues for collaboration between Maharashtra and Paraguay. His recent discussions with PM Modi encourage us to anticipate a resilient partnership between our nations! Wishing you a wonderful stay in Mumbai, Hon President Sir!”