H.E. Mr Juan Angulo, Ambassador of Chile to India

Diplomatist: As the Ambassador India, please share your impressions in India of Chile to of working

H.E. Mr Juan Angulo: To work in India, as Ambassador, has been very gratifying. Both countries, in spite of the distance, share common values such as family, and traditions, and have respect for the local culture. Chilean, as Indians, are proud of its heritage, and positive about the future.

As well in Chile, I've seen very energetic people, hard-working, ingenious, innovative and sociable people. These characteristics have been key to strengthening the ties between our countries, with the scope of bringing development and happiness to our citizens.

From a personal aspect, I've been able to easily connect with local people in everyday interactions, principally due to the empathy that Indians have with foreigners, and their interest to know more about Chile which obviously helps to get along without difficulties.

India is a very receptive country, with frien citizens. One aspect that I highlight is how much they know about my country. I've noticed they know not only about the wine but about the natural landscapes and their diversity, the opportunities it offers regarding astronomy, open skies, IT or entrepreneurship with a gender focus.

Diplomatist: How do you see the recent development of Chile and India relations?

H.E. Mr Juan Angulo: From the beginning of India as a republic, we'd had friendly and respectful relations. In fact, Chile sent a special envoy to the ceremonies of independence in August 1947.

Most recently, since the signature of a PTA in 2007, we have achieved substantial growth in bilateral economic relations. From that time, our ties have narrowed even more, thanks to the trust built over time.

The development of Chile and India relations has been very positive and has gone beyond the economic aspect. One of the most unknown parts of our relations is cultural matters.