Big moves ahead: India, Paraguay discuss trade deals, health initiatives during JCM

The meeting was chaired by Paraguay's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Víctor Verdún and Secretary (East) of the Indian  Ministry of External Affairs Periasamy Kumaran.

In addition, the meeting was attended by senior representatives of relevant Paraguayan ministries, including the Ministry of Education and Sciences, the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies, and the Vice Ministry of Mines and Energy.

"The meeting took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, during which both delegations conducted a comprehensive review of the current state of bilateral relations. They highlighted the renewed dynamism that these relations have acquired, driven by the recent State Visit of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Paraguay, Santiago Peña Palacios, to the Republic of India, which marked a significant milestone in strengthening political dialogue and deepening bilateral cooperation in various areas of common interest. The Indian side also appreciated the establishment of the Parliamentary Friendship Commission for India in the Chamber of Senators in the National Congress of Paraguay," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

During the meeting, issues on the bilateral agenda were addressed, including political and economic relations, cooperation in technology, infrastructure, energy, education, health, trade and investment, civil aviation, tourism, space, sustainable development, and water resources. In addition, views were exchanged on multilateral issues of common interest, including cooperation in international forums and organizations.

Both sides agreed on the importance of strengthening cooperation in mutually beneficial areas, promoting trade, encouraging investment, and consolidating the multi-faceted partnership in sectors of mutual interest, as well as advancing the negotiation of bilateral instruments. The following areas were identified as priorities: agriculture; renewable energy (especially solar); biofuels; information and communication technologies; cybersecurity; public health; education and technical training; civil aviation; infrastructure, railways; water management and cooperation; sustainable development; and space cooperation.

The delegations agreed on the importance of deepening high-level political dialogue, promoting the exchange of official visits and regular consultations, following up on priority areas, evaluating new initiatives, and facilitating the implementation of existing instruments. They also highlighted the potential for growth in bilateral trade and investment in key areas including renewable energy, agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, ICT, biofuels, and light manufacturing.

During the meeting, the Paraguayan side expressed its willingness to encourage Indian investment in Paraguay.

The two sides also discussed practical measures to streamline consular and administrative procedures to facilitate the presence of Indian businesses in the country.

During the session, the delegations reviewed the bilateral instruments currently under negotiation and agreed that the Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Exchange between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of India and the National Secretariat of Culture of the Republic of Paraguay (2023–2027 period), is ready for signature.

Both parties agreed that terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, constitutes a serious threat to international peace and security. In this regard, they reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism through coordinated efforts at the bilateral, regional, multilateral, and global levels.

They also expressed their willingness to strengthen cooperation and bilateral coordination mechanisms in the areas of security and cyber security, for mutual benefit.