Welcoming His Excellency Mr. Santiago Peña, President of the Republic of Paraguay, at the International Conference titled “Global South and Triangular Cooperation: Emerging Facets”—organized by the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) in New Delhi—the Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Shri Pabitra Margherita, began his address with a tone of warmth and esteem. “We are deeply honoured by the presence of His Excellency Mr. Santiago Peña, President of the Republic of Paraguay, who is currently on his first State Visit to India. Mr. President, we extend to you a very warm welcome.”
The Minister underlined the historical depth and the enduring spirit of the bilateral relationship between India and Paraguay. “Your visit marks a significant milestone in our bilateral relationship, which dates back to 1961. Our ties are founded on mutual respect, democratic values, and a shared vision for inclusive development and global peace.”
The RIS conference, he noted, served as an ideal platform to explore new dimensions of cooperation in the Global South, including the growing role of triangular partnerships that involve collaboration between developing nations, supported by traditional donors or multilateral institutions.
“It is my privilege to welcome you all to this important event, hosted by the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), one of India’s premier public policy think tanks. I want to take this opportunity to thank RIS for organising this timely and meaningful engagement focused on the Global South and Triangular Cooperation—a subject of vital importance in today’s rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.”
RIS, as the Minister emphasised, continues to be instrumental in shaping India’s vision of development diplomacy. “RIS plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s development cooperation strategy, advancing South-South partnerships, and fostering dialogue on global economic and development issues.”
In a solemn moment, the Minister paused to reflect on the tragic terrorist attack in Pehalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 innocent lives were lost.“India strongly condemns this act of senseless violence. I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Your Excellency and the Government of Paraguay for your unequivocal condemnation of this attack. Your solidarity in this moment of grief is deeply appreciated, and it reaffirms our shared resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.”
Minister Margherita shared insights into President Peña’s fruitful engagements with Indian leadership, describing them as pivotal in advancing bilateral and regional cooperation. “His meetings yesterday with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu were instrumental in strengthening our bilateral cooperation and furthering regional collaboration. This visit brings fresh momentum to the India–Paraguay partnership. It opens up new avenues for cooperation across a range of sectors—economic, technological, and cultural.”
Highlighting India’s global economic strides, the Minister noted: “India has recently crossed the landmark of a USD 4 trillion economy, becoming the fourth-largest economy in the world. This achievement reflects the strength, resilience, and dynamism of our economy, and more importantly, India’s growing engagement with international partners.”
He highlighted India’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth, particularly through engagement with countries of the Global South. “At this juncture, India is reaching out to like-minded nations, including Paraguay, to foster inclusive and sustainable global growth.”
India’s achievements in sectors such as digital infrastructure, space, AI, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals were also underscored as potential areas for collaboration with Paraguay. “We are eager to share our experiences, innovations, and technological capabilities with partner countries, especially from the Global South, through initiatives that promote mutual benefit and long-term sustainability.”
The Minister also lauded President Peña’s engagement with India’s business community. “These interactions are key to unlocking the vast potential of our economic partnership and creating pathways for investments, joint ventures, and innovation-led growth.”
Shri Margherita described the visit of the Paraguayan President as “a landmark moment in the growing friendship between India and Paraguay. It is a reflection of our shared aspirations for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future.”
The conference, enriched by the presence of President Peña and global thought leaders, reaffirmed the growing importance of South-South and triangular cooperation as vehicles for a more equitable and connected world order.
Leave a Reply