India and Chile have taken fresh steps toward strengthening their economic and strategic partnership through a series of high-level meetings held in New Delhi this week. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Perez Mackenna on Wednesday to discuss expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, services, and international coordination.
Following the meeting, Jaishankar stated that both sides had productive discussions aimed at increasing collaboration in market diversification, sourcing opportunities, and exports of priority products. The leaders also explored ways to improve cooperation in the services sector, which continues to play an important role in both economies.
In addition to bilateral priorities, the two ministers agreed to coordinate more closely in regional and global forums. Their talks reflected the growing importance of partnerships between emerging economies as countries seek stronger trade networks and stable economic alliances amid global uncertainty.
Francisco Perez Mackenna arrived in India on May 9 for a seven-day official visit intended to deepen ties between the two nations. Upon reaching New Delhi, he described the visit as an important opportunity to strengthen diplomatic and commercial relations while expanding cooperation in several areas. Chile is looking to increase engagement with India in trade, investment, and long-term economic development initiatives.
On Tuesday, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal also met the Chilean delegation during a breakfast discussion focused on advancing economic relations. The leaders reviewed the ongoing negotiations related to the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, commonly referred to as CEPA.
According to Goyal, the talks centered on improving trade opportunities, increasing investments, and strengthening the strategic relationship between India and Chile. He highlighted India’s commitment to expanding economic cooperation and building stronger people-to-people connections that can support long-term growth for both countries.
India has been actively pursuing trade agreements with several international partners as part of its broader strategy to boost exports, attract foreign investment, and reduce dependence on limited supply chains. The discussions with Chile align with these efforts and demonstrate India’s intention to expand its economic footprint across Latin America.
Later during the visit, Mackenna also participated in a roundtable meeting with Indian and Chilean business leaders. The session focused on identifying new opportunities to increase bilateral trade and encourage stronger investment partnerships between companies from both nations.
