What happened?
India and Argentina signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 19 February 2025 to strengthen cooperation in lithium exploration and mining. The MoU, signed between Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL) and the Provincial Government of Catamarca, focuses on deepening collaboration in critical mineral exploration. Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy met with Governor Raúl Alejandro Jalil of Catamarca in New Delhi to discuss investment opportunities and sustainable mining practices. The agreement highlights ongoing lithium exploration by Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) and Greenko in Argentina’s lithium-rich regions.
Why it matters to India:
The MoU is pivotal for India’s efforts to secure critical minerals essential for its electric vehicle industry and renewable energy goals. Strengthening ties with Argentina, part of the global Lithium Triangle, helps diversify India’s mineral supply chains and reduce reliance on imports from strategic competitors. The agreement also aligns with India’s ambitions to become a global hub for clean energy technologies and supports its broader energy security goals.
