Visit of Foreign Minister of Chile, H.E. Mr. Francisco Perez Mackenna, to India (May 11-14, 2026)

H.E. Mr. Francisco Pérez Mackenna, paid an official visit India from 11-14 May 2026. He was accompanied by H.E. Paula Estévez Weinsteina, Vice Minister of International Economic Relations, and representatives of prominent industries in Chile.

2. During the visit, Foreign Minister Mackenna held bilateral meetings with External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar and Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, and reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral cooperation. These discussions reflected the growing strategic and economic convergence between India and Chile.

3. Foreign Minister Mackenna was accompanied by a diverse business delegation representing key Chilean industries. The delegation engaged with Indian counterparts to explore new avenues for commercial partnerships and investment opportunities, reflecting strong mutual interest in expanding economic ties.

4. As part of the program, Foreign Minister Mackenna visited Bengaluru on 14 May, where he met the Minister of Electronics and Information Technology of Government of Karnataka and paid visit to Center C-CAMP (a biotechnology and startup center, featuring advanced technology in the field of biology). These engagements highlighted the importance both countries attach to advancing innovation, strengthening digital collaboration, and promoting education and knowledge exchange.

5. Both sides welcomed the substantive progress in the ongoing negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). They directed the negotiating teams to work towards an early conclusion of negotiations for a balanced and forward-looking agreement.

6. A key focus of the discussions was on critical minerals cooperation, where Chile's strengths and India's growing demand present a natural partnership. Both sides explored ways for long-term supply arrangements as well as greater collaboration across the value chain, including processing, technology partnerships and joint ventures.

7. Both sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments, while reiterating their shared commitment to multilateralism and stronger cooperation among the Global South partners.

8. The visit imparted fresh impetus to the India-Chile partnership, with both sides agreeing to translate the current momentum into tangible outcomes, particularly in CEPA negotiations, critical minerals cooperation and investment.

New Delhi
May 15, 2026