India and Peru are expected to ink several pacts including agreements for boosting bilateral trade, investment besides promotion of cultural exchanges. The agreements are to be signed in LIMA today after delegation level talks between Vice President Hamid Ansari and his Peruvian counterpart Marisol Espinoza.

India and Peru are also expected to formally announce the formation of an Industry body INCHAM (Indian chamber of Commerce), to boost bilateral trade and investments. Our correspondent reports, Vice President Hamid Ansari will hold high level talks with Mr. Freddy Otarola the President of the national legislature- the Congress and also the members of the Peru-India Parliamentary Friendship league. Talks are also slated with Peruvian foreign minister Eda Rivas, Trade and tourism minister Magaly Silva and also with members of Peruvian Parliament.

India seeks greater trade and investment with mineral and hydrocarbon rich Peru. Mutual trade between India and Peru stood at 1.16 billion US Dollars. Later in the day, the Vice President Hamid Ansari will call on Peruvian President Ollanta Humalla. The two leaders are expected to review the entire gamut of India Peru relations and lay the roadmap ahead.

Mr. Ansari’s visit on the occasion of 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations signifies the importance, India attaches to its ties with Peru. India-Peru relations have traditionally been cordial and friendly and Lima is also a founding member of NAM and G-77. Both countries are also to open formal discussions on a free trade agreement soon.