New Delhi/Lima, May 12 (UNI) Peru has evinced interest in production of generic medicines by Indian companies in the South American country and early conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement.
Acknowledging India's leadership in the pharma sector from which Peru could benefit, Peruvian Health
Minister Silvia Pessah Eljay on Friday suggested to Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu that the Indian Government could enable Indian pharma companies set up generic medicines production facilities in Peru.
The four-member Peruvian side led by Prime Minister Cesar Villanueva Bardales agreed to consider Mr Naidu's
demand for hassle-free registration of Indian pharma companies for supply of medicines.

Following the delegation level talks, India and Peru signed an Agreement on Cooperation in New and Renewable
Energy. Peru is a founder member of the International Solar Alliance, established with India taking the initiative.
The Vice President, who arrived in Lima on Thursday, held extensive talks with the President, Prime Minister
and senior ministers of Peru on a range of issues indicating specific areas for enhanced engagement. He
spoke at length about India’s strength in supply of quality and cost effective generic medicines, Information
Technology, defence equipment, Science & Technology and space applications.
Peru’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nestor Popolizio Bardales supported India's candidature as a Permanent member
of the United Nation’s Security Council in line with its size, role and responsibilities in the global scheme of
things and extended Peru’s support to India in this regard.
Foreign Trade and Tourism Minister Rogers Valencia Espinoza, while speaking of the potential of bilateral trade, said Peru was keen to conclude a Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with India. Two rounds of discussions have already been held in this regard and the third round is to be held in Delhi in August this year, he noted and stressed on the need to conclude this agreement at the earliest for mutual benefit.
The top leadership of Peru conveyed that their country has a lot to learn from India's success story and resolved
to significantly enhance trade relations with India as the two countries celebrated 55 years of diplomatic ties in
Lima.

Referring to the success of Information Technology Centre in Peru set up by India, the Peruvian side wanted
more such centres set up in other parts of the country.
Earlier, during his talks with Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra, Mr Naidu said 55 years of diplomatic ties between
the two countries was an important landmark and it was time to assess the achievements so far to chart out a clear
course of action to realise the full potential.
The Peruvian President said his country 'is closely watching India’s progress in different sectors including its transition from an agrarian economy to being an IT leader with strong capacities in Science & Technology and space sector.'
He informed Mr Naidu that ministers concerned were asked by him to make a time-bound action plans for progressing on identified areas of cooperation.
Sharing Mr Naidu’s concern about terrorism, Mr Viczara noted that while terrorists come out with new strategies, the global community must act together to counter terrorism in all it’s different forms and shapes.
Peru’s External Affairs Ministry organised a special programme in Lima commemorating the 55 years of diplomatic ties with India. Peruvian youth performed Bharat Natyam which was appreciated by Mr Naidu.
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