India and El Salvador are embarking on a journey of collaboration aimed at advancing telecommunications and infrastructure development.
Advisor to the President of El Salvador, Ibrajim Bukele, led a high-level delegation to Mumbai on April 14, where they engaged in discussions with representatives of Reliance Jio to explore joint ventures in 5G technology and tailored solutions for the region’s specific needs.
Ibrajim Bukele, led a 6-member high-level delegation from the Central American nation. The delegation also included Romeo Rodriguez, Minister of Public Works and Transportation, Nelson Reyes, Vice Minister of Transportation of Government of El Salvador, and a team of experts from different fields.
According to the Indian Ambassador to El Salvador, Manoj Kumar Mahapatra, this visit signifies the commitment of both nations to fostering transformative change and connectivity infrastructure.
Reliance Jio, based in Mumbai, showcased its expertise in 5G technology, offering valuable insights into potential implementations in El Salvador’s telecom sector. The discussions underlined a mutual commitment to fostering connectivity infrastructure, laying the groundwork for future cooperation.
In addition to Mumbai, the delegation visited the Centre for Development of Telematics (CDoT) office in New Delhi. Engaging with officials at CDoT provided a platform for discussions on telecommunications development and technology innovation. This exchange of ideas facilitated collaborations and knowledge sharing between India and El Salvador, enhancing telecom infrastructure and services.
Beyond telecommunications, the delegation oversaw various infrastructural projects across India, gaining first-hand experience of their operation and manufacturing processes. Discussions with Ashok Leyland centered on exploring collaboration and technological exchange in the manufacturing and operation of buses. The visit underscored the potential for partnership and knowledge transfer in the automotive industry.
Comprehensive site visits and technical assessments were conducted at various locations of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) in New Delhi, essential for planning and executing metro line projects in El Salvador. Discussions and inspections focused on route alignment, station design, signalling systems, rolling stock procurement, and safety protocols. They went on site inspections at DMRC’s Mundaka casting yard and Janak Puri elevated metro construction site.
They also experienced a ride on the Delhi Metro, gaining insights into the technical intricacies of elevated and underground rail routes. Moreover, DMRC has formalized its collaboration with Lakshmi Capital by entering into a Non-Disclosure Agreement, indicating a commitment to elevate cooperation in the technical aspects of the project to a higher level.
Financial Express Online had recently reported that Indian Ambassador to El Salvador Ambassador Manoj Kumar Mohapatra had led a meeting with the Government of El Salvador, DMRC and Lakshmi Capital to discuss the intricacies of the project.
The high-level delegation’s visit follows the signing of two significant MoUs between Lakshmi Capital, an Indian company, and the Public and Road Ministry of El Salvador. These MoUs outline plans for the construction of a 22 km Metro line project and the supply of modern and high tech buses. Lakshmi Capital, a subsidiary of the SRAM & MRAM group, has been actively collaborating with the Government of El Salvador to provide crucial financial support and investment opportunities for these projects.
The delegation also visited the Shimla-Jakhu Ropeway to observe its operation and experience a ride and this provided valuable insights into innovative solutions for transportation infrastructure, particularly in challenging mountainous terrain. This experience further enhanced their understanding of innovative solutions for transportation infrastructure, highlighting the importance of adapting technology to meet the unique challenges of mountainous regions in El Salvador.
“Through these initiatives, India and El Salvador are strengthening their bilateral relations and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships to drive sustainable development and prosperity,” said Ambassador Mahapatra.
Despite their busy schedule, the delegation made time to visit Agra and explore the iconic Taj Mahal, symbolizing India’s rich heritage and architectural grandeur.
