Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari has arrived in Peru capital Lima for the first ever visit at the vice-presidential level, as part of India's thrust towards Latin America.
Several agreements including one on setting up of a joint commission and another in the area of culture are expected to be signed during the three-day visit to Peru.
The Vice President reached Lima after an overnight halt in Frankfurt.
During his October 26 to 29 visit to Peru, Ansari will hold talks with his counterpart Marisol Espinoza Cruz, the first Vice-President of Peru. He will also meet Peru's foreign minister and its foreign trade and tourism minsiter. He will also call on Peruvian President Ollanta Humala.
Ansari's visit coincides with the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Peru.
India is seeking greater trade and investment with Peru which is rich in minerals and hydrocarbons. Bilateral trade between India and Peru in 2012 was USD 1.68 billion.
India-Peru relations have traditionally been cordial and friendly and Lima is also a member of NAM and G-77. Both countries are expected to discuss a free trade agreement soon.
During his visit, Ansari will inaugurate the Cultural Festival of India in Lima to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Peru.
