Team Blitz India
NEW DELHI: In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, the enduring partnership between India and Argentina stands as a shining example of deep-rooted economic, political, and cultural ties. The two nations, separated by thousands of miles, have found common ground in shared interests, democratic values, and a commitment to human rights.
On May 25, Argentina celebrates an important holiday, known as Día de la Revolución de Mayo, which commemorates the anniversary of the First Independent Government in Buenos Aires in 1810. This small revolution marked the first step towards Argentina’s independence and is celebrated with national traditions such as the serving of locro, a thick stew of corn, meat, pumpkin, and potatoes, which is considered the national dish of Argentina.
Within this vibrant context of celebration and national pride, the robust relationship between India and Argentina has paved the way for collaborations spanning diverse sectors, from agriculture and trade to science and technology.
Historical relations
The history between India and Argentina dates back nearly a century when the legendary poet and philosopher, Rabindranath Tagore, embarked on a journey to Argentina in 1924. His visit laid the foundation for informal relations that were further solidified by the establishment of a consulate in Calcutta by Argentina in the 1920s. India reciprocated by opening a Trade Commission in Buenos Aires, which eventually blossomed into a full-fledged embassy in 1949, marking a formalization of ties between the two nations.
Over the years, numerous high-level visits have taken place. Notable visits from the Argentine side have included Presidents Arturo Frondizi, Reynaldo Bignone, Raul Alfonsin, Carlos Menem, Cristina Elisabet Fernández de Kirchner, and Mauricio Macri. Similarly, Indian Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi, PV Narasimha Rao, and Narendra Modi have visited Argentina fostering greater understanding and collaboration.
Booming bilateral trade
The partnership between India and Argentina has resulted in a flourishing bilateral trade that reached a historic peak of USD 5.7 billion in 2021, with a growth rate of 72 per cent over 2020, making India the fourth-largest trading partner of Argentina. As per Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), India-Argentina bilateral trade during the fiscal year 2021-22 was USD 5.63 billion, with India’s exports to Argentina valued at USD 1.43 billion registering a growth of 107.3 per cent over exports in 2020-21, and Argentina’s exports to India valued at USD 4.20 billion.
The major exports from Argentina to India include soybean, gold, animal hides, and other items, while India exports refined petroleum, chemicals and pesticides, yarn and fibers, and motorcycles, cycles and related parts. The identified potential areas of mutual engagement are the pharmaceutical sector, renewable energy sources, nuclear medicine, and defense cooperation.
