A Parliamentary Goodwill Delegation from India, led by Shri Pralhad Joshi, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal & Mines, embarked on a visit to Uruguay from 14-17 June 2023. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen and deepen the bilateral relations between the two democracies, fostering cooperation in various areas such as parliamentary diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange. The delegation engaged in a series of meetings, discussions, and events to promote mutual understanding and collaboration.
The Composition of the Delegation and Briefing by the Ambassador:
The multi-party delegation consisted of nine Members of Parliament from both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, representing different political parties. Accompanying them was Shri G Srinivas, Secretary of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. Before commencing their official engagements, the delegation received a briefing from Shri Dinesh Bhatia, the Ambassador of India to Argentina and Uruguay, regarding the country’s bilateral relations with India and its growing significance.
Parliamentary Engagements and Launch of the Friendship Group:
On 15 June, the delegation was received by the President of the House of Representatives of Uruguay, Mr. Sebastian Andujar. The delegation held talks with members of both houses of the Uruguayan Parliament, with a focus on strengthening bilateral relations through parliamentary diplomacy. During the discussions, Minister Joshi and Mr. Andujar launched the India-Uruguay Parliamentary Friendship Group in the Uruguayan Parliament, further solidifying the bond between the two nations.
Minister Joshi extended an invitation to Mr. Andujar to visit India with a parliamentary delegation, which was gladly accepted. Both sides agreed to organize a reciprocal visit of Uruguayan parliamentarians to India before the end of 2023, with the specific dates to be determined through diplomatic channels. These exchanges are expected to contribute to greater understanding and collaboration between the legislative bodies of the two countries.
Promoting Cultural Exchange and Interaction with the Indian Community:
The delegation paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by laying floral wreaths at his bust in Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay. The delegation actively took part in the celebrations of the International Day of Yoga, organized by the Indian Cultural Association of Uruguay. The event featured meditation sessions and a mesmerizing classical Odissi dance performance by a local artist. The deep appreciation for Indian culture, philosophy, spirituality, yoga, and meditation among the people of Uruguay was evident through the significant number of followers of various Indian yoga and spiritual institutions.
The delegation took the opportunity to interact with the Indian community and friends of India residing in Montevideo, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection.
Fostering Trade and Economic Ties:
Uruguay XXI, the agency responsible for promoting exports, investments, and the country’s image, presented to the delegation with the objective of promoting bilateral trade and economic ties. The delegation also visited the office of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Uruguay, which marked its 20th year of operations in 2022 and has become the largest private sector employer in the country. These engagements aimed to explore avenues for increased collaboration in trade, investment, and technology between India and Uruguay.
Successful Visit and Outlook for Future Relations:
The visit of the Parliamentary Goodwill Delegation to Uruguay was deemed highly successful in strengthening bilateral relations. The visit showcased India’s cultural diversity and economic prowess, leaving a lasting impression on its Uruguayan counterparts. Secretary G. Srinivas regarded the visit as a remarkable display of Indian diversity and rich culture, along with highlighting India’s economic prominence in a friendly yet distant country. Ambassador Bhatia expressed his anticipation for more such exchanges to further deepen the bilateral relations between India and Uruguay.
The visit not only served to strengthen the bond between the two nations but also created a platform for sustained collaboration, fostering greater understanding, and promoting mutual interests in the years to come.
