Watch: Chilean President Gabriel Boric stops mid-walk to ask PM Modi about the Ashoka Chakra on the Indian flag

Chilean President Gabriel Boric questioned Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the significance of the Ashoka Chakra on the Indian flag during his state visit to India. The exchange occurred on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Hyderabad House in Delhi, where the two leaders met for talks.

A video circulating on social media shows Boric and Modi exiting a doorway and engaging in conversation. Boric stops at the Indian flag, points to the Ashoka Chakra, and asks Modi about its meaning. Modi then provides an explanation of the symbol, which is at the center of India's flag.

Significance of the Ashoka Chakra

The Ashoka Chakra is a navy blue wheel with 24 spokes, adapted from the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath. It symbolizes progress, duty, and various other values.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric’s Visit to India

Boric, who is on a four-day visit to India, is accompanied by a high-level delegation including government officials and business leaders. During their meeting, Modi and Boric discussed strengthening bilateral relations in various sectors, including economic and social cooperation.

Homage to Mahatma Gandhi

Earlier in the day, Boric visited Rajghat, where he paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. The Ministry of External Affairs’ official spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, shared a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating: "President Gabriel Boric Font of Chile pays homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, honouring his lasting message of peace & non-violence. A moment of reflection on the enduring legacy of the Mahatma & shared values that unite."

Boric’s Remarks on the Visit

In his address, Boric called the visit a "momentous occasion" for strengthening and diversifying India-Chile relations, emphasizing the need for multilateral cooperation in today's global context. He highlighted the shared opportunities for growth between India and Chile in areas like agribusiness, innovation, and the creative industries.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Boric’s visit, which began on April 1, is scheduled to run through April 5, and aims to deepen economic, political, and cultural ties between the two nations. At the start of his visit, Boric met with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who expressed optimism about the talks, stating: "Pleased to call on President Gabriel Boric Font of Chile at the start of his State Visit to India. Appreciate his commitment for deepening our long-standing cooperation. Confident that his talks with PM Narendra Modi today will foster new partnerships and greater engagement."