New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said India and Chile reviewed the progress of negotiations for the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral trade, investment and strategic cooperation between the two countries.

In a post on social media platform X, Goyal said he held discussions over breakfast with Chile’s Foreign Minister Francisco Perez Mackenna and members of the Chilean delegation.

“Held a delightful discussion over breakfast today with H.E. Francisco Perez Mackenna, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Chile, along with members of the Chilean delegation,” he said.

“We reviewed the progress of CEPA negotiations and discussed ways to further deepen our trade, investment, and strategic partnership,” Goyal mentioned.

The minister added that India values its longstanding partnership with Chile and remains committed to expanding economic engagement and people-to-people ties for shared growth and prosperity.

“India values its warm and longstanding partnership with Chile, and we remain committed to expanding our economic engagement and people-to-people ties for shared growth and prosperity,” Goyal added.

The discussions come at a time when India is actively pursuing multiple trade agreements with key global partners to strengthen exports, attract investments and diversify supply chains amid global economic uncertainties.

India has been focusing on expanding its trade footprint in Latin America, with Chile emerging as an important partner in sectors such as minerals, energy, agriculture and services.

The proposed CEPA is expected to further enhance market access, reduce trade barriers and boost bilateral investments between the two nations.

The government has also intensified efforts to promote India as a global manufacturing and export hub.

Last week, Goyal held a series of meetings with global industry leaders and senior officials to explore new opportunities for trade and investment.

–IANS

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