Buenos Aires, Argentina.- In the context of a historic official visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Buenos Aires to strengthen strategic ties with Argentina. This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian head of government since 1968. On this occasion, a press conference was held on Saturday in the Argentine capital, led by Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, and Official Spokesperson Shri Randhir Jaiswal, who outlined the agreements reached and the outlook for the future.

“This is a historic visit. Prime Minister Modi is in Argentina on an official visit, the first bilateral one in 57 years. This morning, he began his agenda by paying tribute to General San Martín, a symbol of Argentina’s independence,” Kumaran stated at the opening of the press conference.

During the meeting between Modi and Argentine President Javier Milei, both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in key areas such as trade, technology, defense, energy, health, agriculture, and space. They also shared a lunch at Casa Rosada, where they held an informal and productive dialogue on bilateral opportunities.

Trade and Defense

Kumaran noted that “the Prime Minister requested support for expanding the Preferential Trade Agreement between India and Mercosur,” highlighting the mutual benefits of such an initiative. In terms of defense, possible joint projects were discussed, including helicopter maintenance and technology transfer.

Critical Minerals and Energy

India reaffirmed its interest in Argentina’s lithium and strategic mineral reserves. “We have companies like KABIL and Coal India Limited, which have already signed five concession agreements. Our goal is to process these minerals in Argentina and transport them to India to support our energy transition,” Kumaran explained.

Regarding energy, he referred to the memorandum between YPF and Indian companies IOC and Bharat Petroleum. “We aim to invest and move forward with exploration and production agreements. Talks are ongoing,” he added.

Health and Access to Medicines

India requested the facilitation of market access for Indian pharmaceuticals in Argentina. “We welcome Argentina’s decision to allow the direct import of medicines approved by the FDA or EMA. This will enable vital and affordable medicines to reach the Argentine population faster,” Kumaran emphasized.

Innovation, Drones, and Space

A key highlight was technological collaboration. Modi presented India’s advances in the use of drones for agriculture, surveillance, and medical delivery. “President Milei expressed strong interest in the use of drones and how India applies them to improve productivity and reduce costs,” Kumaran said.

Both countries will also work to strengthen space cooperation, including satellite development, launch services, and technological applications. “The Prime Minister invited Argentina to join new initiatives and to visit India to explore collaborations in startups and technology,” he announced.

Cultural Exchange and South-South Cooperation

The press conference concluded with a call to deepen human and cultural ties. “India and Argentina share democratic values and play active roles in the Global South. We must build on this foundation to expand our cooperation,” Kumaran affirmed.

The Prime Minister also formally invited President Milei to visit India and tour the Lion Sanctuary in Gujarat. “It will be a meaningful and enriching experience,” he added.