Statement to the Press by the Hon'ble President-santiago

I am delighted to be in this beautiful country on my very first State Visit abroad after assuming the office of the President of the Republic of India. My visit here has been a rewarding experience.

On behalf of my delegation, I would like to thank President Bachelet, the Government and people of Chile for the warmth of their hospitality. During my talks with her, we reviewed the full gamut of our relations. We are in agreement that there is excellent scope for intensifying the level of our engagement.

The four agreements signed earlier today on civil aviation, Science and Technology, sports and research in the Antarctica will help further diversify the institutional structure of our cooperation and give further impetus to developing our ties.

India and Chile share many complementarities. Our common commitment to inclusive economic development through pluralistic democratic governance makes us natural partners.

Our bilateral trade is growing well and there are many more opportunities to diversify our trade and investment basket.

Given the strong credentials of both our economies and the growing outreach of our business houses, the time is now opportune for a substantial intensification of our economic engagement.

As you know, my delegation is accompanied by a separate business delegation which is looking for concrete partnerships in Chile.

My discussions with President Bachelet, covering the ongoing processes of socio-economic development in our respective countries as well as the entire gamut of our bilateral relations and our cooperation on multilateral issues were meaningful and constructive, and were held in a very warm and friendly atmosphere.

We exchanged views on the special programmes that we have in our countries for the poor and the marginalized sections of society and for the empowerment of women and the girl child. These are causes that have a fundamental bearing on the future development of our societies.

I availed of the opportunity to compliment President Bachelet on the distinction of being the first executive woman President of this great country. Her commitment to democracy and social justice stands out. I have conveyed an invitation for her to visit India and I am very pleased that she has accepted.

I am confident that my visit to Chile will contribute meaningfully to the further enhancement of our bilateral relations and our cooperation on international issues. I would like to take this opportunity to convey to the friendly people of Chile, greetings and good wishes from the people of India.