PM Modi holds talks with Argentinian President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires; Two countries agree to diversify bilateral trade basket –

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a productive meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei yesterday.
 
The visit marked the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 Years.
 
The two leaders held a brief one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks covering the full spectrum of bilateral ties.
 
They agreed to enhance cooperation in key sectors including trade & commerce, technology, defence, space, health, and pharmaceuticals and further deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
 
Akashvani correspondent reports that considering the potential opportunities for both nations, Prime Minister requested Argentina’s support in expanding the India-MERCOSUR preferential trade agreement.
 
Highlighting its strength in affordable and quality medicines, India called for easing of entry regulations for Indian pharma companies.
 
Argentina confirmed that it will allow imports for medicines having US FDA or European EMA approvals. Cooperation in energy and critical minerals was a key focus.
 
With vast reserves of shale gas, oil, and lithium, Argentina is seen as a reliable partner in powering India’s growing clean energy and industrial needs.
 
Collaboration in Space Sector, multiple use cases for drones and sports management were also discussed.
 
President Milei showed keen interest in India’s UPI, and both sides agreed to facilitate a central bank visit to study its role in monetary policy.
 
Prime Minister thanked Argentina for their support following the Pahalgam terror attack. Prime Minister also invited President Milei to visit India.
 
Before departing from Buenos Aires, Prime Minister paid floral tribute at the busts of Mahatma Gandhi and Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore.
 
The next stop in his 5-nation tour is Brazil – to attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio followed by a State Visit to Brasilia.