Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a five-nation tour. After visiting Trinidad and Tobago, PM Modi has now reached Argentina. This visit is considered highly important from India’s perspective, as it is the first time in 57 years that an Indian Prime Minister has gone on a bilateral visit to Argentina.
Although PM Modi had previously visited Argentina in 2018 to attend the G20 summit, that trip was for a multilateral event. This time, the visit is entirely focused on expanding bilateral cooperation.
Meeting with Argentina’s President
When PM Modi landed at Argentina’s Ezeiza International Airport, he was given a ceremonial guard of honor. He is also scheduled to meet Argentina’s President Javier Milei.
The two leaders will discuss several key areas including defense, agriculture, energy, mining, renewable energy, science & technology, and investments. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the meeting will focus on building mutually beneficial partnerships.
Why Is Argentina Important for India?
In a statement regarding the visit, PM Modi made it clear that there is immense potential for cooperation between India and Argentina across several sectors:
- Argentina is a leading agricultural producer and can become a key source of grains and oilseeds for India.
- Argentina has abundant reserves of lithium and other rare minerals, which are crucial for India’s electric vehicle and battery manufacturing industries.
- Argentina’s Vaca Muerta shale gas project could pave the way for a long-term energy partnership with India.
- Argentina’s participation in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) can enhance green energy cooperation between the two nations.
PM Modi Honored with Highest Civilian Award in Trinidad
Before arriving in Argentina, PM Modi was on a two-day visit to Trinidad and Tobago, where he was conferred with the “Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago”, the country’s highest civilian award.
He became the first foreign leader to receive this honor. During the visit, six important agreements were signed between India and Trinidad, covering trade, digital transactions, culture, health, and maritime cooperation.
Next Stops: Brazil and Namibia
After Argentina, PM Modi will travel to Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Summit, where key global economic and political issues will be discussed. Following that, he will head to Namibia on a state visit, with a focus on strengthening India-Africa relations.
