Did PM Modi Start a New Chapter in India-Argentina Relations?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his unprecedented visit to Argentina by honoring General Jose de San Martin, the nation's liberator. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations, focusing on trade and cooperation in key sectors like defense, agriculture, and renewable energy. Discover the significance of this historic moment.
Key Takeaways
- Historic visit by PM Modi to Argentina marks a new chapter in bilateral relations.
- Focus on economic cooperation in defense, agriculture, and renewable energy.
- General Jose de San Martin honored, symbolizing shared values.
- Bilateral trade reached USD 6.4 billion in 2022.
- Partnership in critical minerals like lithium enhances India’s green energy transition.
Buenos Aires, July 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially commenced his momentous journey to Argentina by honoring the statue of General Jose de San Martin, a distinguished freedom fighter and national hero, located in Buenos Aires.
He laid a wreath at the San Martin Memorial, marking the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to this South American nation in 57 years.
General Jose de San Martin is celebrated as the liberator of Argentina; the monument was crafted in 1862 by French sculptor Louis Joseph Daumas, making it the first equestrian statue in Buenos Aires.
San Martín played a pivotal role in Argentina's quest for independence from 1813 to 1818, triumphing over Spanish forces at the Battle of San Lorenzo, reorganizing the Army of the North, serving as Governor of Cuyo, and establishing the Army of the Andes. He led this army across the mountains into Chile to free it from Spanish dominion before advancing north to liberate Peru in 1820.
Subsequently, Prime Minister Modi received a warm welcome from Argentina's President Javier Milei at the historic Casa Rosada, where they began their bilateral discussions.
Arriving early Saturday, PM Modi's visit is the third leg of his five-nation tour, following stops in Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago. The tour will continue with visits to Brazil (July 5-8) and Namibia (July 9).
A ceremonial welcome preceded the delegation-level talks, which will be followed by a lunch hosted by President Milei in honor of the Prime Minister.
Since 2019, Argentina has been a strategic partner for India, and last year marked 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
This visit comes at a critical moment as Argentina is undergoing significant economic reforms akin to those India experienced in the past, as noted by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) prior to the historic visit.
The two leaders are expected to deliberate on economic and trade matters to bolster their bilateral relationship.
MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran stated, "India's progress in defense manufacturing, space technology, and emerging fields such as information technology and digital public infrastructure can provide valuable insights for Argentina. We can also share our expertise in telemedicine and digital health solutions to enhance medical service access and improve the quality and affordability of healthcare."
The discussions will include a review of ongoing cooperation and strategies to enhance the India-Argentina partnership in key domains such as defense, agriculture, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, trade, investment, and cultural exchanges.
India and Argentina have made notable strides in bilateral cooperation in the mineral resources sector, especially in lithium, a crucial element for India's green energy transition. An MOU for cooperation in mineral resources was signed in August 2022, with the inaugural meeting of the Joint Working Group occurring in January 2025.
Argentina possesses the world's second-largest shale gas reserves and the fourth-largest shale oil reserves, along with substantial conventional oil and gas deposits, positioning it as a potentially significant energy ally for India in the future. Argentina's abundant reserves of critical minerals like lithium and copper align with India's increasing demand for secure and sustainable supplies for its clean energy transition and industrial growth. India's public sector entity, KABIL, has already secured several concessions in Argentina since 2024. More discussions on this matter are anticipated between the leaders," Kumaran added.
Importantly, India-Argentina bilateral trade has more than doubled from 2019 to 2022, reaching USD 6.4 billion in 2022. In 2021 and 2022, India was Argentina's fourth-largest trading partner. Argentina is a primary supplier of edible oils—soybean and sunflower—to India. In 2024, total annual trade between India and Argentina increased by 33 percent to USD 5.23 billion, making India Argentina's fifth-largest trading partner and export destination.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the significance of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Argentina. This diplomatic engagement not only strengthens ties but also opens avenues for collaboration in critical sectors. With shared interests and complementary strengths, India and Argentina can pave the way for mutual growth and prosperity.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of PM Modi's visit to Argentina?
PM Modi's visit aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss economic cooperation in various sectors, including trade and defense.
Who is General Jose de San Martin?
General Jose de San Martin is a revered freedom fighter in Argentina, recognized for his role in the country's fight for independence.
What are some key areas of cooperation between India and Argentina?
Key areas include defense, agriculture, mining, renewable energy, and trade.
When did India and Argentina establish diplomatic relations?
India and Argentina celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations last year, marking a significant milestone.
How much did bilateral trade between India and Argentina increase?
Bilateral trade doubled from 2019 to 2022, peaking at USD 6.4 billion in 2022.
