MoS Ramnath Thakur Reaffirms India's Commitment to Addressing Sanitary & Phytosanitary Issues Under MoU with Chile

India conveyed its desire to continue working closely with Chile when Union Minister of State (MoS), Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Ramnath Thakur met Esteban Valenzuela, Chilean Minister for Agriculture along with his delegation at the Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi on August 28, 2024. The meeting focused on key areas of mutual interest and collaboration, including the implementation of MoUs on Agricultural Cooperation, the Horticulture Action Plan, and the e-certification of phytosanitary certificates.

Discussions also addressed agricultural challenges in both Chile and India and explored opportunities to boost agricultural trade between the two countries. According to an official release, the ministers underscored the importance of sustainable practices and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the agricultural partnership to strengthen cooperation.

Several issues were identified that needed resolution to increase the volume of bilateral agricultural trade. Thakur appreciated the shared perspectives between the two nations, noting that high-level visits and engagements have significantly strengthened bilateral cooperation. He reaffirmed India's commitment to addressing sanitary and phytosanitary issues under the existing MoU.

Chile’s minister expressed gratitude to Thakur for the warm reception and his proposal to establish a Task Force to address the market access and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) concerns raised by the Indian side.

The Chilean minister assured early resolution of market access to Indian mangoes and pomegranates and further conveyed Chile's keen interest in importing Indian bananas and basmati rice. In response, Thakur laid emphasis on exploring opportunities to expand trade in products such as roses, garlic, kidney beans, and other items, aiming to unlock the full potential of bilateral trade.

Chile’s minister expressed an interest in broadening the range of agricultural products traded by including walnuts, fruits, and vegetables in the existing list. The meeting concluded with Thakur expressing a strong desire to continue working closely with the Chilean side to further strengthen bilateral ties and conveyed best wishes for a fruitful and pleasant stay in India.

The meeting was also 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. From the Indian side, the meeting was attended by Ajeet Kumar Sahu, Joint Secretary, Muktanand Agrawal Joint Secretary and other senior officers of the Ministry.