PM Modi’s Landmark Visit to Argentina Signals Deeper Strategic Push in Latin America
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Buenos Aires on Friday evening, beginning a historic two-day visit that marks a new chapter in India–Argentina relations. As part of his ongoing five-nation tour, the visit aims to enhance India’s strategic engagement with the Global South, while strengthening economic and political ties with South America’s second-largest economy.
Upon arrival at Ezeiza International Airport, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome, symbolizing the importance Argentina places on the bilateral partnership. This is the first standalone bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 years, the last being Indira Gandhi’s in 1968.
“Landed in Buenos Aires for a bilateral visit which will focus on augmenting relations with Argentina. I’m eager to be meeting President Javier Milei and holding detailed talks with him,” PM Modi said in a post on social media platform X.
The Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, echoed the sentiment, calling it a celebration of “the enduring friendship between our nations.”
Strengthening Strategic Partnership Amid Reform Momentum
PM Modi is visiting Argentina at the invitation of President Javier Milei, with whom he previously met in November 2024 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. While Modi had earlier visited Argentina for the 2018 G20 Summit, this is his first bilateral visit dedicated entirely to Argentina.
India and Argentina upgraded their ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2019, and in 2024, the two countries marked 75 years of diplomatic relations. Their cooperation spans a broad spectrum—defence, energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, and digital infrastructure.
Argentina is currently undertaking sweeping economic reforms, reminiscent of India’s own transformation over the past two decades. With India’s expertise in digital public infrastructure (DPI), telemedicine, and IT, the visit is expected to explore synergies in technology-led development and affordable healthcare delivery.
Focus on Trade, Energy, and Critical Minerals
One of the key focal points of the visit is expanding economic cooperation, especially in energy and critical minerals. Argentina holds the world’s second-largest shale gas reserves and the fourth-largest shale oil reserves, in addition to being part of the Lithium Triangle (with Bolivia and Chile). Lithium is essential for EV batteries, electronics, and renewable energy storage.
Indian state-owned companies such as Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) and Coal India Ltd have already secured concessions for lithium exploration in Catamarca province. Talks between Modi and Milei are expected to accelerate collaboration in this critical area, aligning with India’s goals for clean energy transition and industrial self-reliance.
Strengthening People-to-People and Cultural Links
Beyond government and economic engagement, the India–Argentina relationship has a strong cultural and people-to-people dimension. Indian traditions like Yoga, Ayurveda, and philosophy have gained popularity in Argentina. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to pay tribute at the statue of General José de San Martín, Argentina’s revered independence hero.
As part of the programme, PM Modi will participate in delegation-level talks, followed by a state luncheon hosted by President Milei. Discussions will cover a wide range of sectors:
- Trade and investment
- Defence and security
- Green energy and mining
- Health and pharmaceuticals
- ICT and digital innovation
- Disaster management
- Education and youth exchange
Part of a Broader Global South Strategy
PM Modi’s visit to Argentina follows successful stops in Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, and will be followed by participation in the BRICS Summit in Brazil, where he will also pay a bilateral visit to Brasilia. The final leg of his journey will take him to Namibia.
The ongoing five-nation tour underscores India’s commitment to building equitable partnerships with the Global South, promoting multipolarity, and deepening south-south cooperation in a rapidly shifting world order.
