India and the Central American Integration System (SICA) held a Virtual Dialogue on June 18, 2025, to strengthen their cooperation in regional development. The Indian side was led by Additional Secretary Shri. Rajesh Vaishnaw, while SICA was represented by Vice Minister of Multilateral Affairs H.E. Mr. Alejandro Solano, along with Director of International Cooperation Ms. Carmen Marroquin and senior officials from SICA Member countries.
The Virtual Dialogue marked an important milestone in the India-SICA relationship, which is built on mutual respect, shared values of democracy and sustainable development, and a strong commitment to South-South cooperation. India has actively supported various initiatives in the region through its development cooperation programmes, including the ITEC capacity-building platform, Quick Impact Projects (QIPs), and the dedicated SME grant programme.
Additional Secretary Shri. Rajesh Vaishnaw highlighted India's success in Digital Transformation, Affordable Healthcare and Medicines, Disaster Resilience, and Renewable Energy, stating that India is willing to cooperate further with SICA Member countries in these areas for shared prosperity and sustainable development.
The representatives from SICA Secretariat and the SICA Member countries appreciated India's proactive role in fostering global South-South cooperation. They emphasized that the India-SICA cooperation will deepen further through sustained political dialogue and regional cooperation initiatives, particularly in key areas such as Food and Nutritional Security, Health, Connectivity, Agriculture, Digital Transformation, Energy, Trade, and Investment.
The current Pro-Tempore Presidency of SICA lies with Costa Rica, which will be handed over to Panama later this year. The India-SICA relationship has been strengthened through support during times of need, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and other natural disasters affecting the region.
India's commitment to regional development is a key aspect of its foreign policy, and the Virtual Dialogue marks an important step forward in strengthening ties with SICA Member countries. With cooperation in areas such as digital transformation, health, and renewable energy, India and SICA are poised to work together towards shared prosperity and sustainable development in the region.