India and Chile should diversify their export basket to enhance trade between the two countries, said President Ram Nath Kovind.

Leading a delegation-level talks between the two sides, Kovind said that India and Chile trade relations are doing well.

But the two countries can do much more. Chile is the fifth largest trading partner of India in the Latin American region. Copper constitutes more than 85% of the imports from Chile. We must diversify our trade basket to further strengthen trade, he added.

Kovind, reached Santiago, Chile in the evening of March 30, 2019 - the final leg of his visit to three nations – Croatia, Bolivia and Chile.

In a major boost to furthering bilateral ties, Chile announced that it will allow visa-free entry to Indian nationals holding a valid US Visa.

The President welcomed Chile’s decision as a step that would promote both cultural and business ties.

The President also thanked Chile for its strong condemnation of the recent Pulwama Terror.

The two countries agreed to work together to strengthen global response to defeat and destroy terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and hold those responsible, accountable for their brutality against humanity.

India also offered training slots to Chilean armed forces in the premier defence institutions including for courses in mountain warfare and peacekeeping.

The two countries also agreed to explore opportunities for other cooperation in the defense field including jointly manufacturing defense equipment under the Make in India program.

Following the delegation-level talks, the two Presidents witnessed the signing and exchange of three MoUs in the fields of mining, culture and disability. The President also issued a Press Statement on the occasion.

Published On : 02-04-2019

Source : SME Times