In a major move to boost global cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, the Karnataka government announced on Saturday that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with the Government of Chile. This agreement was made during the Innovation Summit held in Bengaluru.

The summit took place as part of the official visit of Chile's President, H.E. Gabriel Boric, and his high-level delegation to India. According to an official statement, the Letter of Intent (LoI) is meant to build a partnership between Karnataka and Chile in important areas like new technologies, startups, research, knowledge sharing and skill development. This agreement shows both sides are committed to working together on innovation and finding ways to grow together through collaboration. Chile has become the first Latin American country to join hands with Karnataka under the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) — a key initiative by the Karnataka government that connects with over 30 countries to support global innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric welcomed this partnership and encouraged startups and tech companies from Karnataka to explore business and collaboration opportunities in Chile. He emphasised the growing innovation ecosystem in Chile and the country’s openness to working with global partners. While speaking at the summit, Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge highlighted the state’s strong position as a global leader in technology and innovation. He also mentioned that this partnership is just the start of a stronger connection between the tech ecosystems of Karnataka and Chile. "Karnataka offers unmatched talent, thriving startup energy, and a mature innovation infrastructure. With Chile's dynamic efforts to build a strong tech ecosystem, this partnership can unlock exciting new opportunities for both sides," he said. 

The Minister's Office says this partnership will help startups from both regions reach more markets and will also support joint research projects and student or academic exchanges. "It will enable the sharing of best practices in policymaking and innovation governance, strengthen institutional linkages between research and innovation bodies in Karnataka and Chile and also promote investments and partnerships in key technology areas," it added.

During his visit to the city, the President of the Republic of Chile also stopped by Raj Bhavan, where he was warmly welcomed by Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot, who greeted him with a rose. The President had formal discussions with the Governor, along with ministers and officials from the Chilean delegation.