Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font, who is on a five-day state visit to India, held extensive discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to enhance diplomatic, trade, and strategic partnerships. The discussions covered key areas such as trade, defense, mining, and digital public infrastructure, reinforcing the deepening ties between the two nations.

During his address at Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Boric praised PM Modi’s global diplomatic stature, stating that Modi has the capability to engage with world leaders across various geopolitical spectrums, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin, the United States’ Donald Trump, Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and European Union leaders. He emphasized India's growing influence in global affairs and described it as a key geopolitical player.

Talks on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

Following the high-level talks, PM Modi announced that India and Chile have agreed to begin negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to expand bilateral trade and investment. This agreement is expected to strengthen trade relations between India, one of the fastest-growing economies, and Chile, a major player in Latin America.

PM Modi highlighted Chile’s strategic importance as India’s key partner in Latin America, referring to it as a "gateway to Antarctica." He expressed India’s willingness to collaborate in sectors like renewable energy, digital infrastructure, railways, and space technology.

"Today, we have directed our teams to begin discussions on a mutually beneficial comprehensive economic partnership agreement," PM Modi stated during the joint press meet.

Critical Minerals and Strategic Collaboration

One of the most significant aspects of the discussions was India’s interest in Chile’s rich reserves of copper and lithium. Chile is among the world’s largest producers of these critical minerals, which are essential for India’s expanding industrial and green energy sectors.

India has been actively securing access to critical minerals such as lithium and copper to boost its electric vehicle (EV) production, battery manufacturing, and renewable energy initiatives. Chile’s resources could play a crucial role in India’s transition toward clean energy and sustainable development.

PM Modi underlined the need for greater collaboration in mineral exploration and trade, ensuring a stable supply chain for industries that depend on these key materials.

Expanding Defense and Strategic Ties

The discussions also covered defense cooperation, with both leaders acknowledging the need for stronger military and strategic collaboration. India’s defense exports and Chile’s interest in modernizing its defense infrastructure open avenues for potential partnerships in defense manufacturing, technology transfer, and training programs.

India has been expanding its defense ties with Latin American nations, and Chile’s participation in joint military exercises or procurement of Indian defense equipment could mark a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

India’s Offer to Share Digital Public Infrastructure Expertise

As a global leader in digital public infrastructure, India extended an offer to share its expertise with Chile. India’s successful Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Aadhaar-based identity systems, and digital governance models have been recognized worldwide for their efficiency and scalability.

Chile has shown keen interest in learning from India’s digital transformation, particularly in areas such as financial inclusion, digital payments, and e-governance. Collaboration in these sectors could pave the way for technological advancements and inclusive growth in both nations.

Chile’s Role in India’s Latin America Strategy

India’s engagement with Chile is part of a broader strategy to enhance relations with Latin American countries. Chile, with its stable economy, resource wealth, and strategic location, serves as a valuable partner for India in trade, investment, and diplomatic outreach in the region.

With India’s growing influence in global trade and technology sectors, this partnership could bring economic benefits, market expansion, and geopolitical stability to both nations.

Future Prospects and Conclusion

The high-level talks between PM Modi and President Boric signal a new era of economic and strategic cooperation between India and Chile. The proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), combined with collaborations in critical minerals, defense, and digital transformation, lays the foundation for stronger bilateral ties.

As both nations work towards deepening trade and investment ties, their partnership will play a vital role in shaping the future of global economic alliances. With Chile’s vast natural resources and India’s growing economic and technological prowess, the collaboration holds immense potential for mutual growth and global impact.

This state visit marks a significant step towards strengthening Indo-Chilean relations, fostering economic opportunities, and expanding strategic engagements in the years to come.

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