Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held comprehensive bilateral discussions with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña Palacios at Hyderabad House on Monday, expressing deep appreciation for Paraguay’s strong condemnation of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

“This visit comes soon after the barbaric terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Modi expressed his deep appreciation to Paraguay for its strong condemnation of the attack, as well as for the sincere condolences and solidarity expressed with the people and Government of India,” said P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations. On behalf of Paraguay, President Peña expressed his deep solidarity with the victims and families of the attack.

The meeting marked the first-ever state visit by President Peña to India and only the second by a Paraguayan President, following a 2012 visit. Accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, members of parliament, and senior officials, Peña’s visit underscores Paraguay’s commitment to strengthening ties with India.

Discussions covered the full spectrum of bilateral relations, including trade and investment, health and pharmaceuticals, defense and security, mining, and infrastructure development.

“Our countries are integral parts of the Global South, sharing similar hopes, aspirations, and challenges,” said PM Modi. “We see new opportunities for cooperation in digital technology, critical minerals, energy, agriculture, healthcare, defense, railways, space, and overall economic partnership. We stand united in the fight against terrorism, cybercrime, organized crime, and drug trafficking.”

India and Paraguay established diplomatic relations in 1961 and have maintained warm ties ever since, with growing cooperation in trade, agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals, and information technology. Paraguay is emerging as an important trade partner for India in Latin America.

PM Modi highlighted the existing Preferential Trade Agreement with MERCOSUR, urging both sides to explore expanding the pact to deepen economic ties.

Earlier in the day, President Peña was received with a ceremonial Guard of Honour at Palam Air Force Station and met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to discuss avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation.

“Pleased to call on President Santiago Peña of Paraguay at the start of his State Visit to India,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X. “Appreciate his positive sentiments and guidance for enhancing India–Paraguay cooperation. Confident his talks with PM Modi will open new avenues for engagement with Paraguay and South America.”

President Peña also paid floral tribute at Rajghat and is scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu later in the evening, who will host a banquet in his honour.

The MEA emphasized Paraguay’s strategic importance as a trading partner, noting Indian investments in the automobile and pharmaceutical sectors in Paraguay and Paraguayan joint ventures operating in India.

On Tuesday, President Peña will travel to Mumbai for meetings with political leaders, industry stakeholders, startups, and technology experts, highlighting the importance of economic and technological collaboration in bilateral ties.