Delhi, 6 July (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Javier Milei, President of Argentina, at Casa Rosada. This marks the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 years, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties. PM Modi expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

The leaders engaged in discussions on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including critical minerals, oil & gas, defence, nuclear energy, agriculture, science & technology, and digital infrastructure. They reviewed economic collaboration and acknowledged the positive trajectory of bilateral trade, emphasizing the need for diversification to fully realize commercial potential. The expansion of the India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement was also discussed.

PM Modi thanked Milei for Argentina's condemnation of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, recognizing their solidarity in combating terrorism, which both leaders agreed is a significant threat to humanity. They reaffirmed their commitment to reinforce their strategic partnership and advocate for the Global South's concerns.

Excellent meeting with President Javier Milei of Argentina. We are marking 75 years of India-Argentina diplomatic relations and 5 years since we elevated our relationship to a Strategic Partnership. We have covered significant ground in bilateral relations, but we agree that the journey ahead is even more promising!PM Modi on X.

Before concluding his visit, Modi paid tribute at the busts of Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in Buenos Aires.He noted Tagore’s visit to Argentina in 1924 and expressed pride in his contributions, highlighting his focus on education. PM Modi wrote on X,Paid homage to Gurudev Tagore in Buenos Aires. Gurudev Tagore had visited Argentina in 1924 and had left a lasting impression on the minds of many people in this nation, especially scholars and students. We in India take immense pride in the contributions of Gurudev Tagore to our nation’s history and culture. His emphasis on learning and education is also very motivating.

In a separate post on X, PM Modi celebrated Mahatma Gandhi's enduring vision for justice. Paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in Buenos Aires. His timeless vision and noble ideals will always guide humanity. All over the world, the thoughts of Bapu reverberate. They give strength and hope to millions. Inspired by him, we reiterate our commitment to build a just and compassionate world,the post On X reads.

President Milei expressed appreciation for Modi's historic visit, and an invitation was extended for Milei to visit India at a convenient time.

After concluding a fruitful visit to Argentina, PM Modi emplanes for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where he will be participating at the 17th BRICS Summit followed by a state visit.The final stop on his itinerary will be Namibia.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar