In a significant step towards enhancing global cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, the Karnataka government announced on Saturday that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Chile during the Innovation Summit held in Bengaluru. The summit was part of the official visit of Chilean President Gabriel Boric to India.

As per an official statement, the LoI will establish a framework for cooperation between Karnataka and Chile, focusing on emerging technologies, startups, research and development, knowledge exchange, and skill development. The agreement highlights a shared commitment to foster innovation-driven partnerships and collaborative growth between both regions.

Chile becomes the first Latin American country to join Karnataka’s Global Innovation Alliance (GIA), a flagship initiative through which the state collaborates with over 30 countries to promote cross-border innovation, entrepreneurship, and research.

President Boric expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, encouraging startups and technology companies from Karnataka to explore opportunities in Chile. Speaking at the summit, Karnataka’s IT Minister Priyank Kharge highlighted the state’s strength as a global technology hub and emphasized that the partnership represents the beginning of deeper collaboration between the two ecosystems. “Karnataka offers unmatched talent, thriving startup energy, and a mature innovation infrastructure. With Chile’s dynamic efforts to build a strong tech ecosystem, this collaboration can unlock exciting opportunities for both sides,” he said.

This partnership is expected to increase market access for startups from both regions, facilitate joint R&D projects, and foster academic exchanges. It will also promote the sharing of best practices in policymaking, strengthen institutional ties between research and innovation bodies, and encourage investments in key technology sectors. The agreement is seen as a significant milestone in building lasting innovation-driven relationships between Karnataka and Chile.

During his visit, President Boric was also welcomed by Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot at Raj Bhavan.

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