What happened?
President Gabriel Boric of Chile is on a State visit to India from 1-5 April 2025 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit marks 76 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Key agreements were signed, including a Letter of Intent on Antarctic cooperation, a Cultural Exchange Programme, and MoUs on disaster management and critical minerals. Both leaders launched negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to deepen trade ties. Chile announced a Multiple Entry Permit for Indian businesspersons, and both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in pharmaceuticals, digital technology, and defence.
Why it matters to India
The visit underscores India’s growing trade and strategic engagement with Latin America. The CEPA negotiations aim to boost bilateral trade and investment, while agreements on critical minerals secure India’s supply of key resources for clean energy and technology. Defence cooperation, Antarctic research, and digital transformation partnerships align with India’s broader global outreach and technological aspirations. Chile’s support for India’s permanent UNSC seat bid further strengthens diplomatic ties.