Diplomatist Magazine Diplomatist July 2018 | Page 9

MESSAGE FROM
H.E. SUSHMA SWARAJ
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS MINISTER OF INDIA
I am glad that year 2018 marks the 55 th anniversary of the establishment
of diplomatic relations between India and Peru. I am also pleased that a special
publication is being brought out by Embassy of Peru, New Delhi chronicling main
events in the 55 years of diplomatic relations. The chronology is a testimony to
warm and friendly relations between our two countries.
As we celebrate 55 years of our modern journey, it is worthwhile to recall 5000
years of rich history and heritage that our two countries have inherited by being
cradles of human civilization. The valleys of Indus and Caral showed the world
how progressive our ancestors were with their wise planning, ingenious design
and advanced practices. The two wonders-Taj Mahal of India and Machu Picchu
of Peru-continue to mesmerize visitors around the globe.
The shared vision, goodwill, and desire for mutual prosperity have guided ties
between our two countries. The relationship has emerged as a multifaceted one
with growing bilateral trade and in-vestment, engagement covering new areas of
in-formation technology, space, energy, science and technology, defense, traditional
systems of medicine etc. and close cooperation in multilateral fora.
Peru has become an important partner for India in Latin America. The bilateral
trade is increasing and the investments in each other’s territory are growing. Given
the potential and complementary nature of our economies this can only grow. Both
countries have embarked on negotiations to fi nalise a Trade Agreement covering
trade in goods, services and investments.
Peruvians have widely participated in training and human resource development
programmes in India under the Indian Technica l and Economic Cooperation
(ITEC). The India-Peru Centre for Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT)
established three years ago in Lima with the Government of India’s assistance is
a symbol of Development Partnership between the two countries.
Our cooperation at UN and multilateral fora is characterized by shared beliefs,
values and commitments. We both seek expansion of UNSC to refl ect the reality of
the contemporary world and Peru supports India’s claim for permanent membership
in the expanded Security Council. The two countries have strongly condemned
all forms of terrorism and its perpetrators.
As we commemorate the 55 th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic
relations, the Government of India reaffi rms its commitment to work with the
Government of Peru to strengthen our relations in all sectors of the bilateral
partnership for the mutual prosperity of the peoples of India and Peru.
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Diplomatist • Vol 6 • Issue 7 • July 2018, Noida • 9