Presenting the context of his first overseas visit as Vice President, Shri Naidu told Guatemalan leaders that India is keen about enhancing its engagement with Latin America and looks at Guatemala, the most populous and biggest economy in Central America , as the gateway. My visit to Guatemala is a clear indication of this thinking in New Delhi. Going by trade patterns and consumption needs, we are complementary in nature and not competitors and need to take our relation to a new high taking advantage of emerging opportunities in both countries for mutual benefit.
Guatemalan President Shri Jimmy Morales said his country could benefit from the ''successful economic story of India and stressed on the need for improving bilateral engagement in various fields. Referring to India's soft power, he said he was aware of popular TV serial Kaun Banega Karodpati and films like The Slum Dog Millionaire and The Life of Pi. He also referred to huge popularity of Indian made two wheelers given their quality and after sale service in Guatemala beating the popular competitors. After talks with Shri Naidu and before leaving for Costa Rica on an official visit, he directed his deputy for detailed talks with the visiting dignitary for exploring new avenues of cooperation with India.
Leaders of both countries agreed that India and Guatemala are faced with similar challenges including governance issues, terrorism in different forms, poverty and economic disparities and democracy is the best form of governance to address them. Guatemalan Vice President Dr. Franco noted that contrary to the perception their government was making determined efforts to check corruption and his country was facing a different kind of terrorism in the form of criminal gangs.
Guatemalan Speaker Shri Escobar said India's vibrant democracy is a role model in harmonizing vast diversities and offers a lot to learn and India's economic success is equally inspiring. Shri Naidu suggested setting up Parliamentary Friendship Group to promote interaction among MPs of both sides.
During the talks, Indian side agreed to the Guatemala's request for supplying solar panels to its airports. After discussions and in the presence of both the Vice Presidents, both the sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding for training of diplomats and a Letter of Intent for training Guatemalan English Teachers in India. These agreements will be valid for three years and will be extended thereafter, if required.
During the talks, Shri Naidu said In the integrating world order, all the countries need to work together for mutual benefit and for this reason, India is keen about enhancing its engagement with Latin America. India is now making rapid strides with a stable government and able leadership with focus on Reforms and Performance for Transformation. India and Latin American countries could benefit hugely from increased cooperation for enhanced trade and investments.
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