Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita met Ecuador’s Ambassador to India, Fernando Bucheli Vargas, reaffirming momentum in bilateral ties. The discussion focused on practical ways to advance cooperation in areas of shared interest, building on Margherita’s recent official visit to Ecuador.

The MoS emphasised that both sides were aligned in pursuing sectoral gains, reflecting the positive trajectory of relations that span diplomacy, technology and economic development.

Strengthening Diplomatic Momentum

Margherita’s meetings in Ecuador included a productive exchange with President Daniel Noboa Azin, during which greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi were conveyed. The conversation centred on broadening and diversifying the bilateral partnership.

His visit to the Monument of the Heroes of August in Quito was a symbolic tribute to Ecuador’s freedom and the spirit of sacrifice. The minister shared his sentiments on X, recalling the courage and resilience of national heroes.

Subsequently, Margherita met ministers, vice ministers and senior officials to explore deeper cooperation. The South American partner expressed strong interest in engaging with India across priority domains like agriculture, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, training, education, culture, tourism, pharmaceuticals and textiles.

South–South Cooperation Driver

Margherita affirmed India’s long-standing commitment to supporting Ecuador under the broader framework of South–South solidarity. His interactions highlighted India’s readiness to contribute to capacity-building and technology-led growth, creating new opportunities for both nations.

New Institutional Architecture

In a key outcome, Margherita and Gabriela Sommerfeld, Ecuador’s Minister of Foreign and Human Mobility Affairs, signed a Memorandum of Understanding strengthening cooperation between the diplomatic training institutions of both countries. This will promote structured exchanges and prepare future diplomats for enhanced engagement.

The two leaders also jointly inaugurated the resident Embassy of India in Quito — a milestone that underscores India’s sustained interest in deepening its footprint in Latin America.

India and Ecuador have steadily expanded ties since establishing diplomatic relations in 1969. With five rounds of Foreign Office Consultations completed and a growing agenda for collaboration, the relationship is now poised for a stronger, more future-focused phase.

A Forward-Looking Partnership

As global geopolitics evolve, both countries recognise the value of working together on innovation, sustainability, and inclusive economic development. Recent diplomatic engagements mark not just a renewed commitment — but a powerful signal of strategic trust building across continents.