India-Argentina Ties

GS2 – International Relations

Context:

The Indian Prime Minister recently visited Argentina as part of a broader outreach to the Global South, strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Geographical & Economic Significance of Argentina
  • Location:
    Southern South America; borders Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay, and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Key Cities and Features:
    • Capital: Buenos Aires
    • Ushuaia is the world’s southernmost city.
    • Landscape includes the Andes Mountains, Pampas plains, and Patagonia Plateau.
    • Rivers like Parana and Rio de la Plata support agriculture and trade.
  • Natural Resources:
    • Holds 3rd largest global lithium reserves, 4th in lithium production.
    • 2nd largest shale gas reserves and 4th largest shale oil reserves globally.
India-Argentina Bilateral Relations

Historical Ties

  • Early Interactions:
    Argentine traveller Lucio V Mansilla visited India in 1848.
    In 1924, Rabindranath Tagore visited Argentina, fostering cultural bonds in art, music, and philosophy.
    Tagore composed the poetry collection Purabi during his stay.
  • Diplomatic Milestones:
    • PM Indira Gandhi’s visit in 1968 was the last major diplomatic engagement before the recent one.
    • In 2024, both countries celebrated 75 years of diplomatic relations.
Areas of Cooperation
  • Political Engagement:
    Elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2019.
  • Trade Relations:
    • India was Argentina’s 5th largest trading partner in 2024.
    • Bilateral trade volume: ~$5.2 billion.
    • India’s exports: Petrochemicals, yarn, fabrics, pharmaceuticals.
    • India’s imports: Vegetable oils, minerals, residual oils.
  • Energy Collaboration:
    • Argentina is part of the Lithium Triangle (with Chile & Bolivia).
    • Indian company KABIL is exploring 15,000 hectares for lithium extraction in Catamarca Province.
  • Defence Cooperation:
    • HAL signed an MoU on helicopter spare parts and maintenance.
    • Joint commitment to counter-terrorism cooperation.

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