In an exclusive interview with ABC MUNDIAL, the Ambassador of India to Argentina, Ajaneesh Kumar, emphasized the excellent moment in bilateral relations between the two countries, especially following the recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Buenos Aires — the first by an Indian head of government in 57 years.

A historic relationship renewed

“India and Argentina have always enjoyed a very friendly and warm relationship,” said the ambassador. “With the recent visit of our Prime Minister, we can now see a real strengthening of this relationship. We now want to add much more substance—whether in trade, politics, or culture. There are many areas where we can work together, and I’m confident that the Embassy, along with the Argentine Foreign Ministry, will continue to build an even closer partnership.”

Modi’s historic visit: key agreements for the future

When asked about the topics discussed during Modi’s visit, Kumar pointed out the historical significance: “The last official visit by an Indian Prime Minister was in 1968 — that’s 57 years ago. This recent visit marks a milestone. The leaders of both countries discussed strategic issues ranging from energy and mining — including lithium and copper — to cooperation in information technology and artificial intelligence. There was even discussion about Argentina exporting uranium to India.”

“There are also key pending agreements, such as a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and another to promote investment. These treaties are essential to boost trade and attract investment between India and Argentina,” he added.

Trade exchange: concrete opportunities

The ambassador highlighted India’s strong interest in strengthening its commercial presence in Argentina. “We are ready to export our pharmaceuticals, heavy machinery, manufactured goods, textiles, petroleum derivatives, and chemicals. We want Argentina to take full advantage of what India can offer — products of the highest quality, globally competitive.”

“India is already known as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’. This is an opportunity for Argentina to import high-quality, low-cost medicines, especially in a context where access to healthcare is crucial,” he noted.

Technology transfer and innovation

Kumar also emphasized the potential for technological cooperation. “I want to highlight Indian technology. We have developments applicable to artificial intelligence, innovation, agritech, and more. A concrete example is our digital payment system — a highly successful model in India that has been offered to many countries. It allows for immediate money transfers, without bureaucracy. This experience could also be very useful for Argentina.”

South-South cooperation: a common path

Within the global context of sustainability, healthcare, and education, the ambassador stressed the importance of South-South cooperation. “India has vast experience as the most populous country in the world. Over our 78 years of independence, we have learned a lot and achieved many successes that we are eager to share with other countries in the Global South.”

“Argentina has also seen success in several areas of public policy. Exchanging these experiences is a smart way to progress. From education and health to environmental policy — these are essential topics. And with the challenges posed by climate change, it is more urgent than ever for countries in the South to come together, hold dialogue, and make joint decisions for the good of their people.”

A message to the Argentine people

To conclude, the ambassador shared a personal message: “I was posted in Argentina between 2002 and 2005 as First Secretary, so I already have a connection with this beautiful country. I cannot say I know it all, but I know a little. Argentina is the eighth-largest country in the world; India is the seventh. We are neighbors in size and complementary in many ways. I hope that during my mission, we will continue bringing our nations and people even closer.”