South American nation Uruguay has reaffirmed its strong support for India on multiple global and regional fronts, including the fight against terrorism, expansion of trade ties, collaboration in defence and space technology, and joint efforts in Antarctic research.
As the two democracies seek to upgrade their long-standing relationship, fresh momentum is building around areas such as railway modernization, artificial intelligence, clean energy, and audiovisual co-productions, with both sides committed to turning shared values into strategic action.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Uruguay’s Ambassador to India, Alberto Guañi, outlined a broad and ambitious agenda to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Guañi emphasized that Uruguay views India as a natural partner in the Global South, and is eager to deepen ties in both traditional and emerging sectors.
Shared Democratic Values and Global Solidarity
Despite being geographically distant, India and Uruguay continue to find common ground in global governance, multilateralism, and democratic principles. Uruguay has reiterated its support for India’s long-standing bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and condemned terrorism in all forms — especially incidents targeting Indian civilians.
“There is deep sorrow whenever India is affected by terrorism — and we stand firmly against such acts,” Ambassador Guañi said, noting that President Yamandú Orsi personally conveyed Uruguay’s condolences to Prime Minister Modi.
He also praised the two countries’ commitment to democratic governance, calling India “the world’s largest democracy” and Uruguay “one of the oldest in the region” — united by shared values despite the 15,000 km between them.
Diplomatic Momentum and Institutional Presence
Recent high-level meetings between Indian and Uruguayan leadership have injected new energy into the relationship. According to him these are the most significant exchanges since former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s visit to Montevideo in 1968. A major outcome: India’s decision to open a full-fledged embassy in Uruguay, which the ambassador called a “crucial step” in building institutional capacity and driving future initiatives.
Trade, Technology, and Uruguay as India’s Gateway to South America
Uruguay aims to become a regional hub for Indian business, using its advanced infrastructure and pro-investment policies to support entry into broader Latin American markets. The Ambassador highlighted existing Indian investments — notably Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which employs over 3,000 people in Uruguay — as examples of successful bilateral engagement.
He also pointed to promising opportunities in agritech, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, and reiterated Uruguay’s push to expand the India–MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement, which has faced procedural delays. “India’s strong links with Brazil, Argentina, and now Uruguay place it in a unique position to push this forward,” he noted.
Railways and Infrastructure Cooperation
He revealed that Uruguay is actively exploring options to revitalize its railway system, particularly for passenger transport. Indian technology and rolling stock are being evaluated as cost-effective and high-quality solutions. “We are keen to source rail infrastructure from India — from wagons to potentially even fast trains,” he said, adding that Uruguay is also reviewing Indian proposals for infrastructure and construction projects.
Partnership in Defence, AI, and Space
Uruguay is emerging as a niche player in technology and defence, and sees India as a strategic partner in areas like drones, satellite manufacturing, and artificial intelligence.
“Uruguay already produces drones and satellites — we want to jointly develop new applications, especially for civilian and agricultural use,” Guañi said. He also suggested that India could use Uruguay as a southern hemisphere launch base, opening up new strategic possibilities for ISRO.
On AI, Uruguay is focused on human-centered innovation, and wants to collaborate with Indian firms and institutions to create ethical and socially beneficial AI systems. “This is a global technology that requires global responsibility,” the ambassador stressed.
Antarctica and Scientific Exploration
Ambassador Guañi proposed collaborative research in Antarctica, where Uruguay maintains two research bases. He said Indian scientists would be welcome to participate in joint expeditions, especially in areas like marine biology, climate science, and sustainable exploration.
One key area of shared interest is krill research, which has medical implications for brain health and aging. “We’ve made some fascinating discoveries that we’re eager to explore further with Indian researchers,” Guañi noted.
Cultural and Creative Exchanges
Uruguay is inviting Indian filmmakers to explore its diverse landscapes and tax incentives for film production. “It’s much cheaper to film in Uruguay than in many parts of the world — and we have European-style settings, skilled extras, and a bilingual workforce,” said the ambassador.
Talks are underway to sign an MoU on audiovisual co-productions, which could make Uruguay a Latin American hub for Bollywood productions targeting global audiences.
Education, Language, and People-to-People Ties
Uruguay, known for its successful “one laptop per child” digital education model, is interested in partnering with India on software, ed-tech, and language training. Ambassador Guañi proposed mutual programs in which Uruguay could help teach Spanish in Indian schools, while learning from India’s expertise in English and STEM education.
“This kind of cooperation is essential to building the future workforce of both nations,” he said.
Connectivity and Visa Reform
A recurring challenge is the lack of direct air connectivity and the complex visa regime between South America and India. Guañi advocated for a Schengen-style visa for MERCOSUR nations to simplify travel and boost tourism and business exchanges.
“We must remove barriers to people-to-people contact. A direct flight via Madrid, and streamlined visas, could transform our relationship,” he said, while also calling for strong safeguards against human trafficking.
A Modern South–South Alliance
As global dynamics shift, Uruguay sees India not just as an economic giant, but as a moral and strategic leader in the Global South. From space to sustainable energy, and from trade to culture, Ambassador Guañi believes there is enormous untapped potential.
“We are far apart geographically, but aligned in values, ambitions, and vision,” he said. “Now is the time to act on this partnership.”
