‘Developing nations should work together on common challenges’: Prez

Patil, who was conferred honorary Doctorate by the University of Chile, said India sought an equitable world order with a greater voice for the developing countries.

The President said the developing countries have their unique problems and challenges. “These have to be understood from their perspective. Co-operation among them constitutes an important principle of global co-operation.

“Promoting interaction between the academic institutions of the developing world is an aspect of South-South cooperation, which should be especially encouraged,” she said.

She said there was tremendous potential for educational cooperation between India and Chile.

“I invite Chilean universities, think tanks and major academic centers to consider collaborations with their Indian counterparts.

“We need greater academic interaction in Science and Technology, in humanities, in engineering, in medicine, in ayurveda and the knowledge sectors such as nano-technology, bio-technology and information technology,” Patil said.

Later in the day, Patil, while addressing at the banquet held in her honour by Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, said both countries should give special emphasis to investment partnership.

“Some Indian companies are actively looking at opportunities in Chile. We hope that in coming years, we will see more Chilean investment in India, especially in the infrastructure sector,” she said.

Patil, who has already visited Brazil and Mexico during the tour, said she has established a “close personal rapport and empathy that is based on shared experiences and concerns and values.” Bachelet, in her speech at the banquet, said: “..India and Chile are also assuming the globalisation as a source of opportunities and consolidating themselves as emerging countries which are eager to increase their contribution to the construction of a better 21st century.” The Chilean President also expressed hope that the two countries should start negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement.

She narrated the quote of Rabindranath Tagore “Thou hast made me known to friends whom I knew not. Thou hast given me seats in homes not my own. Thou hast brought the distant near and made a brother of the stranger” to express old admiration of Chile for India.