PM Modi holds key talks with leaders of Bolivia and Uruguay on trade, health, and strategic cooperation
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the Presidents of Bolivia and Uruguay on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Brazil, engaging in wide-ranging discussions focused on expanding trade, investment, and strategic collaboration in critical sectors.
During his meeting with Bolivian President Luis Alberto Arce Catacora, Prime Minister Modi called the engagement “fruitful” and highlighted Bolivia as an important partner in Latin America. He emphasised the need to prioritise diversified trade linkages and strengthen cooperation in areas such as digital technology, healthcare, critical minerals, and space.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the two leaders exchanged views on boosting collaboration in critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, small and medium industries, traditional medicine, and capacity-building efforts, including through ITEC scholarship programmes and Quick Impact Projects. Both countries acknowledged the opportunities for long-term cooperation in the critical minerals sector, aiming for sustainable and mutually beneficial outcomes.
Prime Minister Modi also conveyed his best wishes to the people of Bolivia as the country prepares to mark its 200th year of independence on August 6, 2025. He expressed solidarity with Bolivians following the devastating floods that struck La Paz and surrounding areas earlier this year and congratulated Bolivia for joining the International Solar Alliance.
In a separate meeting, PM Modi held discussions with Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi. The leaders focused on deepening ties in defence, pharmaceuticals, technology, and chemicals, as well as cooperation in sectors like railways, digital infrastructure, agriculture, and energy.
"Close ties between our nations are important for the Global South. India is committed to doing everything possible to further deepen relations with Uruguay," Modi said.
The MEA noted that both countries expressed interest in expanding the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement to harness greater economic potential. The talks also included areas such as digital collaboration, UPI integration, and cultural exchanges.
Modi thanked President Orsi for condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, and welcomed Uruguay’s support in India's broader fight against terrorism. The Prime Minister also lauded the growing popularity of yoga in Uruguay, calling it a positive sign for stronger people-to-people relations.
