Hon’ble Vice President of Guatemala, H.E. Mr. Guillermo Castillo Reyes Plants a Sapling at India House

GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): In a significant event marking the celebration of Mission LiFE and World Environment Day, H.E. Guillermo Castillo Reyes, Vice President of Guatemala and his team visited India House on 7 June 2023. The Vice President was warmly welcomed by Ambassador H.E. Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra and other dignitaries from the Embassy.

The highlight of the visit was a tree plantation ceremony organized as part of the Mission LiFE (Living in a Friendly Environment) initiative. The Vice President and Ambassador Mohapatra planted saplings to symbolize the commitment to environmental sustainability and promote a greener future. This gesture underscored the importance of preserving nature and mitigating the impact of climate change.

Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is an innovative initiative undertaken by the Government of India to address the pressing global issue of environmental sustainability. As part of this initiative, Embassy of India in Guatemala, recognizing the urgent need to protect the environment and ensure a greener future, is actively promoting and implementing eco-friendly practices, aiming to create a positive impact on the environment and inspire others to adopt sustainable living. The aim of Mission LiFE is to foster a sense of responsibility and commitment towards the environment. By actively engaging in sustainable practices, the mission seeks to contribute to the global efforts in mitigating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and promoting a healthier planet for future generations.

During the visit, fruitful discussions were held on strengthening the bilateral relationship between Guatemala and India. The focus was on exploring avenues for mutual cooperation in the areas of Science & Technology, Education, and Community Development. The discussions on science and technology emphasized the potential for joint research projects, technology transfer, and innovation exchanges. The exchange of ideas and experiences in the field of science and technology laid the foundation for future cooperation in these areas. Both nations recognized the significance of educational exchanges and capacity building initiatives to foster greater understanding and promote cultural ties. The discussions explored possibilities for student and faculty exchange programs, scholarships, and joint academic projects, aimed at nurturing a stronger educational partnership between Guatemala and India. Community development was also a focal point of the discussions, reflecting the shared commitment of both nations to uplift marginalized communities and promote inclusive growth. Both sides expressed their keenness to foster closer ties in these key sectors to benefit the people of both nations.

The evening concluded with a dinner hosted by Ambassador Dr. Manoj Kumar Mohapatra in honor of Vice President Guillermo Castillo Reyes. The dinner provided an opportunity for informal exchanges and further discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The visit of Vice President Guillermo Castillo Reyes to India House on World Environment Day served as a powerful testament to the shared commitment of Guatemala and India towards preserving the environment, fostering innovation, and building a brighter future for both nations. The discussions held during the visit were characterized by a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect, highlighting the commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties.