India is currently making headlines with its trade deals with the United States and the European Union, but an even more significant move may be forthcoming from a small South American country, Chile. The forthcoming Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and Chile, now in its final negotiation stages, is poised to grant India access to some of the world's most valuable lithium and other key minerals. These resources have become essential for numerous countries as strategic assets in the global economy.

Chile, located between the Andes mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is rich in critical minerals that are increasingly seen as geopolitical tools in global power politics. The potential agreement is especially timely as access to these rare minerals has become vital for countries looking to enhance their manufacturing capabilities. If successfully concluded, this FTA could play a pivotal role in helping India achieve its manufacturing targets, especially in sectors where lithium-ion batteries and other mineral-based technologies are essential.

The implications of this deal extend beyond mere economics; it symbolizes a strategic shift in global alliances where mineral resources are becoming bargaining chips in international relations. For India, securing a trade deal with Chile will not only bolster its mineral resource base but also enhance its geopolitical standing in the face of competitive global supply chains and geopolitical tensions.