India and Chile opened landmark talks for a comprehensive trade pact Tuesday, marking a shift in the global mineral supply chain and Antarctic pursuits. This deal was announced during the Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font’s state visit, when two nations signed a strategic copper mining pact aimed at diminishing Chile’s reliance on China while increasing India’s essential mineral security.
Key Highlights:
- Trade & Minerals Boost: PM Narendra Modi confirmed talks for a sweeping trade deal that puts critical minerals accessing lithium and copper at the top of the agenda. Chile’s state-owned, world number one copper producer, CODELCO signed a strategic agreement with India’s Hindustan Copper Ltd to explore joint mining site ventures and technology share. “This partnership will transform resilient supply chain, said MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran.
- Antarctica Partnership: A Letter of Intent was signed to enhance polar research, with Modi referring to Chile as the “gateway to Antarctica” The pact aims to leverage India’s expertise in renewable energy and logistics for joint expeditions.
- Diplomatic Synergy: Leaders also highlighted UN Security Council reforms and peaceful resolutions of conflict stating Chile’s role as a mediator in Ukraine conflict. Boric lauded India’s digital infrastructure and yoga diplomacy – a declaration of 4 November as National Yoga Day by Chile.
Why It Matters:
- CODELCO deal is India’s aggressive mineral diplomacy at a time of worldwide supply chain readjustment.
- Chile gets more diversification out of China; India acquires raw materials for its own clean energy transition.
- Antarctica cooperation creates new opportunities for climate research, resource mapping.
President Boric, who had earlier a meeting with EAM S. Jaishankar, expressed desire to strengthen 70 years of bilateral relations. The visit was also punctuated by deals on space, rails, and renewable energy, putting India as a chief partner of Chile’s tech-full expansion.
