NEW DELHI: Republic of Peru celebrated the 205th anniversary of its Independence and more than six decades of diplomatic relations with India at Hyatt Regency here on June 23.
Chief Guest, Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Mr Pabitra Margherita, after greeting the people of Peru and the Government on the occasion said the cordial relations between the two countries are rooted through democratic values and ancient civilizations. He concluded his speech praising the beautiful ‘dosti,’ friendship between Peru and India.
Earlier, welcoming the Minister, Ambassador Javier Paulinech said, “Your presence is a reflection of the strong and growing ties between our countries and of our shared commitment to further strengthening the friendship and cooperation between both countries. Peru and India are home to some of the world’s oldest and most remarkable civilizations. Our countries share the privilege of being heirs to millenary cultures whose legacies continue to inspire our societies today.”
“Over the years, our relationship has evolved into a dynamic and multifaceted partnership, supported not only by government engagement but also by the growing connections between our peoples, businesses, academic institutions, and cultural communities,” he added.
“Our bilateral relationship is also reaching new milestones. According to India’s trade figures for 2025–2026, Peru has become India’s largest source of imports from Latin America and the Caribbean, with imports valued at over USD 8 billion. Total bilateral trade surpassed USD10 billion, making Peru India’s second-largest trading partner in the region,” Paulinech said.
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“These figures reflect the growing complementarity between our economies and Peru’s increasing relevance as a reliable partner of critical minerals and other strategic resources that contribute to India’s industrial development and energy transition. We also continue with our conversations of the Free Trade Agreement, which will further expand opportunities for trade and investment between our two countries. At the same time, Peru welcomes Indian companies to explore new investment opportunities, including the Corio Greenfield Megaproject, one of the world’s most promising port development initiatives nowadays,” the envoy continued.
“Beyond economics, Peru and India are also connected by a shared appreciation for culture, gastronomy, and people to people diplomacy. These ties remind us that diplomacy ultimately flourishes when it brings our peoples closer together. As we commemorate our independence, we reaffirm our commitment to further strengthening our friendship and partnership with India, guided by mutual respect, shared interests, and a common vision for sustainable development of Global South,” the ambassador said.
He concluded his speech hoping that the friendship between Peru and India will grow and prosper in the years ahead.
The participants also got a chance to taste the Peruvian cuisine, curated by chef Julio Castillo. Performance by Peruvian artists Ananga Malatesta and Ricardo Delgado enthralled the audience.
Ambassadors, High Commissioners, diplomats, heads of international organizations, senior government officials, Members of Parliament, journalists etc graced the occasion.
