Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday for a five-day state visit, marking a crucial step in enhancing diplomatic and economic relations between India and Chile. The visit is expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration across multiple sectors, reinforcing the long-standing partnership between the two nations.
During high-level discussions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Boric agreed to initiate negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)—a move that will elevate the existing trade deal between the two nations. If finalized, Chile will become the first Latin American country to have such an agreement with India.
“Today, we have directed our teams to begin discussions on a mutually beneficial comprehensive economic partnership agreement,” PM Modi announced in a media statement following the talks.
As part of their economic dialogue, the two leaders explored opportunities for collaboration in the field of critical minerals, an area of strategic importance for both nations. Modi also emphasized the need to develop resilient supply and value chains, ensuring sustainable trade between India and Chile.
Recognizing Chile as a key partner in Latin America, Modi described the country as a gateway to Antarctica and highlighted India’s willingness to share its expertise in digital public infrastructure, renewable energy, railways, space technology, and other key areas.
Earlier in the day, President Boric paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, underscoring Chile’s admiration for India’s iconic leader. In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), he expressed:
“Together with our delegation of ministers and parliamentarians, we paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, the memorial erected in his honor in New Delhi. His legacy reminds us that with India, we not only share common interests and a future of great opportunities for our people, but also shared fundamental values.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with President Boric, acknowledging his commitment to strengthening Chilean cooperation. He expressed confidence that Boric’s discussions with PM Modi would foster new partnerships and elevate bilateral engagement.
During his stay, Boric is scheduled to hold key discussions with top Indian leaders, including a luncheon hosted by PM Modi and a state banquet hosted by President Droupadi Murmu.
His itinerary includes visits to Agra, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, where he will interact with political leaders, business representatives, startups, and innovators to explore opportunities for trade, investment, and technological collaboration.
Upon his arrival in New Delhi, President Boric took to X to express his excitement about the visit, stating:
“6:30 a.m. in New Delhi, and from here we begin this State Visit to India—a momentous occasion for strengthening and diversifying our economic, political, and cultural relations at a time when multilateral cooperation is more necessary than ever. We are talking about the fifth-largest economy and the most populous country on the planet, with whom we share common ground and opportunities for growth in key areas such as agribusiness, innovation, and the creative industries.”
He further emphasized the significance of expanding bilateral ties, adding:
“We’re here to strengthen and reinforce our ties, and that’s why I’m joined by government officials, the National Congress, business leaders, leaders in the fields of innovation and culture, distinguished professors, and students. A busy schedule. I’ll keep you posted!”
India and Chile share a historically strong diplomatic relationship, with Chile being the only Latin American country to send a special envoy to India’s Independence Day celebrations in 1947.
Both nations have closely collaborated in multilateral forums, supporting each other on key global issues such as the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms and counterterrorism. Since 2003, Chile has been a vocal supporter of India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UNSC.
Earlier this year, a parliamentary delegation led by BJP Lok Sabha MP Jagdambika Pal visited Chile from January 11 to 15. The delegation actively participated in the Congreso Futuro Summit on January 13 and the Third World Summit of the Committees of the Future on January 14, further strengthening parliamentary and diplomatic exchanges between the two nations.
With Boric’s visit set to bolster economic, political, and cultural cooperation, both India and Chile are poised to enter a new era of strategic partnership—one that will not only enhance trade relations but also foster innovation and sustainable development.