India and Chile strengthen agricultural cooperation in a bilateral meeting

New Delhi: In a high-level bilateral meeting held at Krishi Bhavan, Ramnath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, met with Esteban Valenzuela, Chile’s Minister for Agriculture, and his delegation to discuss areas of mutual interest in agricultural cooperation. 

The meeting focused on the implementation of existing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the two countries, including those related to the Horticulture Action Plan and e-certification of phytosanitary certificates, while exploring ways to boost agricultural trade.

Key topics addressed during the discussions included agricultural challenges faced by both countries and opportunities to enhance bilateral trade, particularly in agricultural products. Both ministers emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the partnership in this sector.

Thakur expressed appreciation for the ongoing collaboration and highlighted the significance of high-level engagements in strengthening bilateral cooperation. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to resolving sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) issues under the existing MoU, a crucial step for increasing trade between the two nations.

Valenzuela proposed the establishment of a task force to address market access and SPS concerns raised by the Indian side. The Chilean minister also assured that Chile would work towards resolving market access issues for Indian mangoes and pomegranates while expressing interest in importing Indian bananas and basmati rice.

Thakur also encouraged Chile to consider expanding trade to include products such as roses, garlic, and kidney beans, aiming to unlock the full potential of bilateral agricultural trade. The Chilean minister reciprocated the sentiment, suggesting the inclusion of walnuts, fruits, and vegetables in the list of traded products.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing a strong desire to continue working together to further strengthen bilateral ties. It was attended by Juan Angulo, Ambassador of Chile, Gabriel Layseca, Head of the Department of International Affairs of ODEPA, and Marcelo Álvarez, Communications Professional, Ministry of Agriculture, Chile. On the Indian side, the meeting saw participation from senior officials, including Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary (IC), and Muktanand Agrawal, Joint Secretary (PP).