India-Mexico relations hold historical significance, with both nations sharing common European connections from the colonial era. Commemorating the 72 years of the establishment of diplomatic ties between these two countries on Mexico National Day, it’s evident that their collaborations have played a substantial role over time.
Historical Background and Political Cooperation
As former colonies, India and Mexico both share connections rooted in the European colonial era. In 1950, Mexico became the first Latin American country to recognize India post-independence and establish a diplomatic relationship. During the Cold War years, both nations worked closely as UN members, championing the interests of developing nations. This collaboration extended to the Uruguay Round of Trade Negotiations under the World Trade Organisation, illustrating their commitment as G-20 members.
In 2007, both countries established a ‘Privileged Partnership,’ and by 2015, they agreed to work towards achieving a ‘Strategic Partnership.’ These nations have several bilateral agreements and MoUs, including Investment Promotion and Protection, Extradition, Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters, Space Cooperation, and more.
Economic and Commercial Ties
India features as the 10th largest trading partner of Mexico, maintaining a trade balance in favor of India for eight consecutive years. As of 2021, exports to Mexico from India reached USD 5.931 billion, while imports from Mexico were at USD 4.17 billion, leading to a total trade worth USD 10.11 billion. The main exports from India include vehicles and auto parts, organic chemicals, electrical machinery, and electronic equipment, among others. Meanwhile, the majority of imports consist of crude oil, mineral fuel, and fertilizers.
Security Affairs
Given the global rise in traditional and non-traditional security challenges, India and Mexico collectively share concerns regarding these threats, with a particular focus on terrorism.
Cultural Connections and Indian Community in Mexico
The Gurudev Tagore Indian Cultural Centre has been operational in Mexico since 2010, promoting cultural activities, including teaching yoga, classical dances, music, etc. There’s an existing agreement on cultural cooperation from 1975, carrying out cooperation activities through four-yearly ‘Programmes of Cultural Cooperation’. The Indian community in Mexico, comprising mostly software engineers, academics/professors, and private businessmen, is estimated to be over 7,000.
Discrepancies in Joint Perspectives
Despite their strong ties, India and Mexico have had differing viewpoints on nuclear non-proliferation matters. However, during the Indian Prime Minister’s 2016 visit, Mexico pledged support for India’s bid to be part of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). Interestingly, both countries also have divergent views on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms.
Recent Developments and Way Forward
In June 2022, both nations signed an agreement for cooperation in space, focusing on trade and investment, health, and pharmaceuticals, among other areas. The specific cooperation agreement on crop monitoring, drought assessment and capacity building was signed on behalf of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Given their striking similarities in geo-climatic conditions, biodiversity, and cultural values, Indian-Mexico relations show promising potential for continued partnerships and collaborations. It’s clear that the connections between these nations trace back centuries, offering a solid foundation for future cooperation.
