India and Guatemala have taken significant steps to deepen their partnership in health and defence, following a series of high-level meetings between Indian Ambassador Raj Kumar Singh and senior Guatemalan ministers.

During his meeting with Guatemala’s Minister of Public Health and Social Assistance, Joaquin Barnoya, Ambassador Singh discussed avenues for expanding collaboration in biotechnology, medical supplies, Ayurveda, and medical tourism. The two sides also explored cooperation under India’s flagship health initiatives such as the Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM-POSHAN) and the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) for affordable generic medicines.

Ambassador Singh also briefed Minister Barnoya on India’s plan to donate 650 custom-made prosthetic limbs to Guatemalan beneficiaries, reinforcing India’s commitment to humanitarian healthcare support.

Earlier, Singh met Guatemala’s Minister of National Defence, Henry David Saenz Ramos, where discussions centred around expanding defence ties, including cooperation in space technology, early warning systems, capacity building, defence procurements, and humanitarian initiatives.

India and Guatemala have shared cordial diplomatic relations since 1972. In May, both nations celebrated 53 years of bilateral ties with a special event co-hosted by the Indian Embassy and Guatemala’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The celebration was attended by over 200 dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders, and members of the Indian community.

The Indian Embassy also announced plans to organise an artificial limb fitment camp, in collaboration with Guatemala’s Ministry of Defence. The 50-day camp aims to provide more than 600 prosthetic limbs to local beneficiaries, strengthening people-to-people connections and showcasing India’s global outreach in healthcare and humanitarian assistance.

The growing partnership reflects India’s broader engagement with Latin America, driven by shared democratic values, mutual respect, and a commitment to sustainable development and peace.