Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Argentine President Javier Milei have announced a new phase of India-Argentina strategic cooperation, focused on defence manufacturing, energy collaboration, mineral resource development, and expanding bilateral trade.
This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister to Argentina in 57 years. The leaders committed to deepening ties across defence, space, pharmaceuticals, energy, health, agriculture, and trade. Modi emphasised that the relationship, now in its 75th year,
holds “even more promising” potential for the future.
Defence and energy boost
India’s drive to become a global defence exporter gained momentum as both sides agreed to ramp up collaboration in security and military technologies. Modi also pitched for Argentina’s support in expanding the India-MERCOSUR trade agreement, which could strengthen India’s outreach to South America.
Energy was another major focus. Argentina’s rich lithium reserves are crucial for India’s green energy transition, and the two nations reaffirmed cooperation under the 2022 mineral resources MoU.
Agricultural and trade expansion
Both leaders agreed to improve market access for agricultural products and established a joint working group on agriculture. The discussions aim to reduce trade barriers and diversify the current India-Argentina trade basket.
India and Argentina saw bilateral trade reach USD 5.23 billion in 2024, with India ranking as Argentina’s fifth-largest trade partner. In previous years, India had been Argentina’s fourth-largest.
Strategic alignment and symbolic outreach
Modi’s visit comes amid growing geopolitical ties and follows his previous visit to Argentina in 2018 for the G20 Summit. During this visit, Indian cultural diplomacy was on display as he was greeted by performances of Kathak, Odissi, and Bharatanatyam by the Indian diaspora.
In a statement, Modi said, “There is immense scope in areas like pharmaceuticals and sports as well.” He described his meeting with Milei as “excellent,” signalling deeper cooperation ahead.
With strategic partnerships expanding beyond Asia and Europe, India’s outreach to Argentina reflects a broader foreign policy shift aimed at tapping South America’s economic and strategic potential.
