From trade to terrorism, Argentina stresses shared priorities with India

Speaking at Argentina’s National Day celebrations in Mumbai, Argentine Ambassador Mariano Caucino underscored the growing strength of India–Argentina relations, describing the partnership as one rooted in “common interests, shared values and a high degree of economic complementarity.”

Addressing guests during a ceremony hosted by Consul General Daniel Quer Cofaloneri at the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Caucino reflected on key milestones that have shaped bilateral relations over the years. He highlighted the opening of Argentina’s Consulate General in Mumbai in 2009 and the elevation of ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2019 as defining moments in the relationship.

The ambassador also pointed to the opening of Argentina’s Agriculture Attaché office in Delhi in 2019, saying it had contributed significantly to strengthening agricultural cooperation between the two nations. He noted that Argentina has since become India’s leading supplier of edible oils.

Emphasising cooperation on global and regional challenges, Caucino said Argentina continues to stand with India in its fight against terrorism. Referring to recent terror attacks in Kashmir and Delhi, he reiterated that both countries “condemn and fight terrorism and extremism” and have consistently supported each other at multilateral forums including the G20.

“We observe the G20 as a meaningful platform to address problems that demand global solutions, such as terrorism, cybercrimes, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the persistence of poverty,” he said.

The envoy further stated that India and Argentina share democratic values, respect for human dignity and a common belief in economic growth driven by free markets with targeted government support. Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Caucino said both nations agree that governments should minimise interference in private enterprise while extending support to those in need.

Calling Prime Minister Modi’s July 2025 visit to Argentina a “historic milestone,” Caucino noted that it marked the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 years.

Highlighting the rapid expansion of trade relations, the ambassador said bilateral trade has now crossed USD 6 billion, fuelled by India’s rise as the world’s fourth-largest economy and the complementary nature of both economies. Indo-Argentine trade recorded a 36.77 per cent increase between January and November 2025, reaching USD 6.34 billion.

Argentina currently exports soybean oil, sunflower oil, legumes, hides and critical minerals such as lithium and copper to India, while India exports pharmaceuticals, machinery, chemicals, motorcycles and industrial products to Argentina.

Caucino also stressed the growing role of Indian investment in Argentina’s mining sector, particularly in lithium-rich Catamarca province, where Indian firms are exploring opportunities in lithium, copper and gold. He said these investments are becoming increasingly important as India expands its electric vehicle ecosystem and looks to secure stable supply chains for critical minerals.