India, Paraguay Space Understanding
India and Paraguay have signed their first-ever Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in peaceful uses of outer space, marking a historic moment in bilateral ties. The agreement, announced at the conclusion of Paraguayan President Santiago Peña’s first state visit to India, aims to deepen collaboration between the Paraguayan Space Agency (AEP) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Both sides noted AEP’s interest in working with ISRO on the development and launch of CubeSats using Indian launch vehicles and Earth observation applications.
According to the joint statement issued on Wednesday at the end of the State visit of the Paraguayan leader, the two sides agreed to enhance commercial partnerships in satellite manufacturing, launch services and capability development within their respective space ecosystems. President Peña also thanked India for training a Paraguayan official at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing.
Energy Ties
On energy cooperation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Paraguay’s inclusion as a founding member of the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA). The leaders committed to working together on biofuels and green hydrogen, including joint projects, technology transfer and harmonizing sector standards. India also offered technical consultancy across the hydrocarbon value chain.
They recognised the need to explore investment opportunities in critical minerals and rare earths, including resource exploration and trade at both government and business levels.
Paraguay was also welcomed as the 100th member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Both leaders noted progress on a 500 MW solar park project being developed with support from India’s NTPC and potential financing by Exim Bank of India. They urged timely completion.
Modi invited Paraguay to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), a 43-nation alliance focused on improving infrastructure resilience amid climate risks.
Fight Against Terrorism
The joint statement also addressed global terrorism. Both leaders backed multilateral counter-terrorism efforts, including India’s push for the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN. Paraguay reaffirmed its support through regional bodies like GAFILAT and the Egmont Group.
They expressed concern over the misuse of the internet and cyberspace, especially its impact on youth. Both sides committed to enhancing cooperation in cyber security and multilateral digital safety initiatives.
MERCOSUR Talks
On trade and investment, the leaders agreed to deepen ties under the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement. Technical teams will work to resolve market access issues, expand cooperation and exchange sectoral information.
Agriculture
The importance of agricultural and livestock sector was highlighted. Both countries are discussing an MoU to create a framework for sharing best practices to improve productivity and farmer income.
The leaders stressed the role of creative industries and committed to implementing an audiovisual co-production agreement. This could enable government incentives, joint initiatives and market expansion in both countries’ film and media sectors.
President Peña’s visit has significantly broadened the scope of India-Paraguay cooperation. Both sides aim for stronger partnerships in space, energy, agriculture, cybersecurity and cultural exchange.
