Latest news with #SantiagoPenaPalacios
Hans India
04-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Paraguay and India learning from each other: President Santiago Pena Palacios on strengthening bilateral ties
Mumbai: Visiting Paraguay President Santiago Pena Palacios on Wednesday expressed optimism about strengthening ties between the two nations during his first official visit to India. Noting the historical significance of his visit, he said it marked only the second time a Paraguayan head of state has come to India and emphasised that both countries are learning from each other. "This visit will serve as a seal of trust, confidence, and mutual understanding," Pena said. "Paraguay is ready to play in the big leagues. We hope the Indian business community and institutions like IMC will use this opportunity to deepen our relationship." Pena called India "not just a country or a continent, but a civilisation that has given so much to the Western world". "It's an honour to be here on behalf of all Paraguayans. Our last state visit to India was thirteen years ago, right after the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. That visit was brief, but this time, it is truly significant." Highlighting historical connections, Pena recalled Paraguay's admiration for Mahatma Gandhi. "In 1955, during a session at the UN General Assembly, Paraguay's Foreign Minister quoted Gandhi while advocating for peace and prosperity. We are excited to be at a stage where Paraguay is learning from India, and India is also learning from Paraguay." Pena acknowledged the challenges that remain in building deeper bilateral ties. "There are still many gaps to fill. History helps us understand each other. Just as India was shaped by its past, so was Paraguay," he said. He drew parallels between the colonial histories of the two nations, noting: "While the British arrived in India in the early 1600s, the Spanish reached Paraguay in the 1500s. They discovered not only abundant land and water but a resilient people. Paraguay gained independence in 1811, telling the Spanish they were free to return home. From that moment, our development accelerated." By the mid-19th century, Paraguay was considered the most advanced nation in Latin America, boasting a steam railway, heavy industry, and global leadership in cotton production. "Our cotton was traded at premium prices on the London Stock Exchange," Pena said. However, he also recounted the devastating War of the Triple Alliance (1864–1870), during which Paraguay lost 70 per cent of its territory and 90 per cent of its male population. "It was nearly an extermination of our people. But our determination to remain independent and sovereign endured," he said. Following the war, Paraguay underwent a long period of reconstruction. "The first half of the 20th century was focused on rebuilding. With so few men left, women played a critical role in shaping society. Today, we remain a conservative nation where family values are central," he added. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed President Pena in Mumbai. Taking to social media platform X, Fadnavis wrote: "It was a great honour to meet and welcome the Hon President of Paraguay, Mr Santiago Pena to Mumbai & State of Maharashtra! It was a pleasure interacting with him. Our enriching dialogue explored promising avenues for collaboration between Maharashtra and Paraguay. His recent meeting with Hon PM Narendra Modi ji makes us looks forward to a resilient and enduring partnership between two nations! Wishing you a wonderful stay in Mumbai, Hon President Sir."
India Gazette
03-06-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
"India an admirable partner, respected friend and source of inspiration": Paraguay President
New Delhi [India], June 3 (ANI): Paraguay President Santiago Pena Palacios has called India an 'admirable partner, respected friend, and source of inspiration' in many sectors. He noted that Paraguay has joined the International Solar Alliance and achieved full membership in the Global Biofuel Alliance and it looks forward to working closely with India to promote a fair, innovative, and sustainable energy transition. Speaking at a banquet hosted in his honour by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, President Pena said, 'I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Madam President Murmu for her generous hospitality and for this beautiful event, which so eloquently reflects the warmth of the Indian people. India, the world's largest democracy, which is an economic dynamism and cultural richness, represents an admirable partner, a respected friend, and a source of inspiration in many areas. This official visit provides a valuable opportunity to further strengthen our bilateral relationship, which, despite the geographic distances, is grounded in shared values, mutual respect and a firm commitment to build a prosperous future together. He noted that Paraguay values India's openness to supporting power ways in developing technical capacities in renewable energy, projects that foster sustainable fuel production, and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies. He said, 'Indian investment in strategic sectors of the Paraguayan economy, such as steel, manufacturing and services, bear witness to the mutual trust and the great potential that exists to further enhance our ties. Paraguay values India's growing presence and support through an open, predictable and private sector friendly policy. 'The recent attainment of investment-grade status is a clear demonstration of our sound institution and a very long-term vision. We are also united by a shared commitment to sustainable development. Paraguay is honoured to have recently joined the International Solar Alliance and to have achieved full membership in the Global Biofuel Alliance. In both forums, we look forward to work closely with India to promote an energy transition that is fair, innovative and sustainable. We especially value India's openness to support powerways in developing technical capacities in renewable energy, as well as in projects that foster sustainable fuel production and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies,' he added. He emphasised that Paraguay holds in high regard India's remarkable path toward modernisation and its growing leadership in multilateral forums. He mentioned that Paraguay is transforming its productive matrix, backed by solid institutions, macroeconomic stability, and a vision centred on the well-being of people He said, 'Like India, Paraguay is proud of its history and devoted to the well-being of our people. I would like to take this moment to pay symbolic tribute to the great Indian nation, which has faced challenges throughout its history, with courage and determination, and which today emerge as a global power. Paraguay holds in high regards India's remarkable path toward modernization and its growing leadership in multilateral forums. 'My country is steadily transforming its productive matrix, backed by solid institutions, macroeconomic stability, and a vision centered on the well-being of our people. We are pleased to see how, within this framework, our relations have significantly deepened in recent years. Today, we share a more dynamic and concrete agenda,' he added. He stated that the banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan demonstrates deep convergence between the two nations that recognise each other in shared principles and a mutual determination to build a more 'just and equitable order.' Stressing that people of Paraguay have been having growing interest in India, he said, 'I would also like to highlight the growing inspired among Paraguayan citizens, an interest that has been reinforced through educational cooperation, particularly via the Government of India's Technological and Economic Cooperation Program, which has enabled many of my compatriots to receive specialized training at renowned institutions.' 'This gathering reflects the deep convergence between two nations that recognize each other in shared principles and a mutual determination to build a more just and equitable international order. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said, the future is not something we wait for passively. It is something we forge through each decision we make. That ethical and proactive vision, so deeply rooted in Indian thought, also guides Paraguay's global engagement. May this visit mark a new chapter in the history of our bilateral relationship, one that is built on trust, on joint action, and the conviction that ties between nations can and must serve as an engine of transformation for our people,' he added. President Murmu received Paraguay's counterpart, Santiago Pena Palacios, at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a banquet in his honour on Monday. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, his wife, Sudesh Dhankhar, and other dignitaries attended the banquet. In a post on X, the Vice President of India stated, Hon'ble Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, attended the banquet hosted by Hon'ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji in honour of Hon'ble President of Paraguay, Mr. Santiago Pena Palacios, at Rashtrapati Bhavan today.' Welcoming Paraguay President to Rashtrapati Bhavan, she said, 'It gives me great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to His Excellency President Pena and a distinguished delegation from Paraguay at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on their first state visit to India. This is a historic occasion. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries in 1961, this marks only the second visit to India by a President of Paraguay.' She emphasised that the two nations share 'warm and friendly relations' based on mutual trust, democratic values, and a shared commitment to the progress and development of the people of the two nations. Highlighting the warm bilateral ties between the two nations, she said, 'Our two countries share warm and friendly bilateral relations based on mutual trust, democratic values and a shared commitment to the progress and development of our people. Both our countries have steadfastly upheld the principles we believe are important, principles deeply rooted in our civilizational values and historical experiences.' (ANI)
India Gazette
02-06-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
PM Narendra Modi to address International Air Transport Association's AGM today
New Delhi [India], June 2 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend and address the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) at Bharat Mandapam, Delhi on June 2. Sharing a post on X, PM Narendra Modi said that he will address the 81st AGM of IATA at 5 pm at Bharat Mandapam. 'At 5 PM today, I will be addressing the AGM of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) being held at Bharat Mandapam. Leading stakeholders from the world of aviation are attending this meeting,' the X post said. According to IATA's website, the AGM and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) are taking place on June 1-3 and are hosted by aviation firm IndiGo. 'The 81st IATA AGM and WATS gathers the top leadership from airlines, the aviation value chain and governments as the aviation industry faces complex and dynamic operating, business and geopolitical environments,' says IATA's website. Earlier in the day, PM Modi met with President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. President Palacios arrived in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India and was accorded a ceremonial welcome along with a Guard of Honour at Palam Air Force Station. The President was warmly received by Minister of State Harsh Vardhan Malhotra, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two countries. Sharing an update on X, Randhir Jaiswal from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) welcomed President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay as he arrived in New Delhi for his first State Visit to India. In his tweet, Jaiswal wrote, 'Bienvenido, President @SantiPenap! President @SantiPenap of Paraguay has arrived in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India, to a ceremonial welcome & Guard of Honour. Warmly received by MoS Harsh Malhotra @hdmalhotra at the airport. This visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship.' The MEA emphasised that President Pena's visit, scheduled from June 2 to June 4, aims to deepen and broaden India-Paraguay ties across political, economic, and cultural spheres. (ANI)
India Gazette
02-06-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
EAM Jaishankar calls on Paraguay President Santiago Pena Palacios
New Delhi [India], June 2 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, on Monday, called on the visiting President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay, who is on his first State visit to India. In a post on X, Jaishankar highlighted the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two countries. 'Pleased to call on President Palacios of Paraguay at the start of his State Visit to India. Appreciate his positive sentiments and guidance for enhancing cooperation in many domains. Confident that his talks with PM Modi today will open new avenues for India's engagement with Paraguay and the South America region,' Jaishankar said in a post on X. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. Earlier in the day, President Palacios paid a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, laying a wreath at the memorial. The visit is part of his three-day state visit to India, which will conclude on June 4. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) took to X to post, 'Honouring the values of peace & non-violence. President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat today.'President Palacios arrived in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India and was accorded a ceremonial welcome along with a Guard of Honour at Palam Air Force Station. The President was warmly received by Minister of State Harsh Vardhan Malhotra, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two countries. Sharing an update on X, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal welcomed President Santiago Pena Palacios on his arrival in the national capital. Jaiswal posted, 'Bienvenido, President @SantiPenap! President @SantiPenap of Paraguay has arrived in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India, to a ceremonial welcome & Guard of Honour. Warmly received by MoS Harsh Malhotra @hdmalhotra at the airport. This visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship.' The MEA emphasised that President Pena's visit, scheduled from June 2 to June 4, aims to deepen and broaden India-Paraguay ties across political, economic, and cultural spheres. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Paraguayan President will be accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers, senior officials, and business representatives. During the visit, President Pena is set to hold high-level talks with Prime Minister Modi and other senior leaders to review the entire gamut of bilateral relations. Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch in his honour, while President Droupadi Murmu is expected to meet him and host a banquet. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar is also scheduled to call on the visiting dignitary. President Pena will also travel to Mumbai to engage with state political leadership, business and industry representatives, startups, innovators, and technology leaders. The State Visit provides an opportunity to comprehensively review bilateral ties and discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest. India and Paraguay have enjoyed warm and friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties on September 13, 1961. Cooperation between the two countries spans trade, agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals, and information technology sectors. Paraguay is an important trading partner for India in Latin America, with several Indian companies active in Paraguay's automobile and pharmaceutical sectors. Paraguayan companies, mainly through joint ventures, also have a presence in India, strengthening economic ties. Both nations share common views on international issues, including United Nations reforms, climate change, renewable energy, and combating terrorism. (ANI)
Time of India
02-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
PM Modi meets Paraguay President Santiago Pena Palacios at Hyderabad House
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister met with President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Monday. Earlier in the day, President Palacios paid a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, laying a wreath at the memorial. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The visit is part of his three-day state visit to India, which will conclude on June 4. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared the moment on X, stating, "Honouring the values of peace & non-violence. President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat today." President Palacios arrived in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India and was accorded a ceremonial welcome along with a Guard of Honour at Palam Air Force Station. The President was warmly received by Minister of State Harsh Vardhan Malhotra, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two countries. Sharing an update on X, Randhir Jaiswal from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) welcomed President Santiago Pena Palacios of Paraguay as he arrived in New Delhi for his first State Visit to India. In his tweet, Jaiswal wrote, "Bienvenido, President @SantiPenap! President @SantiPenap of Paraguay has arrived in New Delhi on his first State Visit to India, to a ceremonial welcome & Guard of Honour. Warmly received by MoS Harsh Malhotra @hdmalhotra at the airport. This visit will provide an opportunity to strengthen the relationship." Screenshot of MEA tweet The MEA emphasised that President Pena's visit, scheduled from June 2 to June 4, aims to deepen and broaden India-Paraguay ties across political, economic, and cultural spheres. At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Paraguayan President will be accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers, senior officials, and business representatives. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now During the visit, President Pena is set to hold high-level talks with Prime Minister Modi and other senior leaders to review the entire gamut of bilateral relations. Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch in his honour, while President Droupadi Murmu is expected to meet him and host a banquet. Vice-president Jagdeep Dhankar and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar are also scheduled to call on the visiting dignitary. Following the Delhi visit, President Pena will travel to Mumbai to engage with state political leadership, business and industry representatives, startups, innovators, and technology leaders. The State Visit provides an opportunity to comprehensively review bilateral ties and discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest. India and Paraguay have enjoyed warm and friendly relations since establishing diplomatic ties on September 13, 1961. Cooperation between the two countries spans trade, agriculture, health, pharmaceuticals, and information technology sectors. Paraguay is an important trading partner for India in Latin America, with several Indian companies active in Paraguay's automobile and pharmaceutical sectors. Paraguayan companies, mainly through joint ventures, also have a presence in India, strengthening economic ties. Both nations share common views on international issues, including United Nations reforms, climate change, renewable energy, and combating terrorism.
