Aug 23: External Affairs Minister (EAM), Dr S. Jaishankar paid an official visit to the Republic of Paraguay from 21-22 August 2022 and inaugurated the newly opened Indian Embassy in Asuncion. This was the first ever visit of an Indian Foreign Minister to the Republic of Paraguay which has taken place as the two countries completed the 60th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations.
The visit started with inauguration of a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at a waterfront of Asuncion. EAM paid homage at the National Pantheon of Heroes and remembered the sacrifices of Paraguayan national heroes.
EAM called on President of the Republic of Paraguay, H. E. Mr. Mario Abdo Benitez, at the presidential palace. EAM also held a meeting with Foreign Minister of Republic of Paraguay, H. E. Mr. Julio Cesar Arriola, where both sides agreed to strengthen their cooperation in various areas including trade and commerce, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, traditional medicines, technical and development cooperation, solar energy, and MERCOSUR. They also exchanged views on regional and global affairs, and agreed to continue supporting each other in multilateral fora and promote a rules based international order. EAM underlined that the supply of vaccines during the COVID pandemic was a statement of solidarity by India.
EAM addressed a business gathering at the Industrial Union of Paraguay in presence of Commerce and Industry Minister of Paraguay, H.E. Mr. Luis Alberto Castiglioni.
The Embassy of India in Asuncion was jointly inaugurated by EAM and FM H.E. Mr. Julio Cesar Arriola. The inauguration was attended by dignitaries from the Paraguayan government including Interior Minister H.E. Mr. Federico A. Gonzalez. Other guests included members of the diplomatic corps, business community and Indian diaspora in Paraguay.
