How Does Argentina Support India in Combating Terrorism?

New Delhi, July 17 (NationPress) Mariano Caucino, the Ambassador of Argentina to India, has reiterated his nation’s unwavering support for India in its ongoing struggle against terrorism, while also expressing a dedication to enhance the global response to this pervasive issue.

During an event to commemorate Argentina’s National Day in New Delhi, the ambassador highlighted that Argentina was among the earliest nations to express solidarity with the Indian government and its people following the horrific terrorist attack on April 22 in Pahalgam.

"Argentina has experienced terrorism firsthand, and we understand its implications," the ambassador affirmed, recalling the tragic loss of over 100 innocent lives due to the bombings at the Israeli Embassy and the Jewish Community Center (AMIA) in Buenos Aires in 1992 and 1994.

He emphasized that the Argentine government, under President Milei, is resolutely committed to rejecting terror in all its forms, asserting that terrorism is intolerable, and that sovereign nations have both the right and the duty to combat and prosecute this threat to global peace and security.

Ambassador Caucino noted that the bilateral relationship between Argentina and India continues to flourish, particularly following PM Modi's recent visit to Argentina.

"PM Modi and President Javier Milei exchanged views on numerous areas of shared interest, including the significance of free markets, deregulation, limited governance, and the rule of law," he remarked.

He highlighted the mutual values of both nations, such as democracy, freedom, and respect for human dignity, while both countries pursue development with a shared understanding of the advantages of free markets.

"I consider it a great honor to serve here during a time when India has achieved remarkable milestones, having ascended to become the World’s fifth largest economy," stated Caucino.

The ambassador further noted that both nations have made significant strides in bilateral trade over the last decade.

"With total trade reaching 4.6 billion USD, Argentina has established itself as the primary supplier of soybean oil to India and the third-largest supplier of sunflower oil, playing a crucial role in ensuring food security for Indian consumers," he added.

Regarding the vital mining sector, the ambassador highlighted that recent years have marked a significant turning point for Indian mining enterprises.

"The province of Catamarca is now home to Indian companies exploring not only lithium but also showing interest in copper and gold. Governor Raul Jalil of Catamarca visited India two months ago to further strengthen these ties.

"These investments are particularly crucial as India progresses in its Electric Vehicle (EV) development, aiming to establish a resilient and diversified supply chain for essential minerals necessary for various Indian industries," added Ambassador Caucino.

Earlier this year, Horacio Daniel Marín, President of YPF, Argentina’s leading oil and gas firm, visited India and signed an agreement with Indian energy companies, marking a significant advancement in bilateral relations in this sector.