Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Argentina on Friday evening (local time) for a historic two-day official visit, the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 57 years. Modi arrived at Buenos Aires' Ezeiza International Airport, where he was given a ceremonial welcome with warm cheers from the Indian diaspora. He is on an official visit to Argentina at the invitation of President Javier Milei to strengthen the bilateral India-Argentina strategic partnership. He will have extensive bilateral talks with President Milei at Casa Rosada, the traditional presidential palace in Buenos Aires.

The leaders will look into ongoing collaboration and new possibilities in defence, agriculture, mining, petroleum and gas, renewable energy, trade, investment, technology, and people-to-people relations as per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). In a departure statement, PM Modi referred to Argentina as a "key economic partner in Latin America and a close collaborator in the G20." Citing India's emphasis on critical minerals and renewable energy, Modi stated, "We will focus on deepening our mutually beneficial cooperation in agriculture, critical minerals, energy, trade, tourism, technology, and investment."

Warm Welcome by Indian Diaspora In Buenos Aires

PM Modi was warmly welcomed upon his arrival by members of the Indian expatriate community at a special welcome reception organized at the Alvear Palace Hotel. Argentina's classical dancers performed traditional Indian dances such as Kathak, Odissi, and Bharatanatyam to give a warm cultural reception. Expressing their excitement, several Indian-origin residents praised Modi’s leadership and India’s growing global stature. “It’s a matter of pride to see our Prime Minister visit Argentina. His vision makes us proud to be Indian,” said Meenu Khiani, a member of the Indian community.

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On Saturday, PM Modi will also make a tribute to General Jose de San Martin, Argentina's national hero and a leading figure in the country's struggle for independence. The ceremony will be at Plaza de San Martin in Buenos Aires, marking respect for common democratic values and histories shared. In a cultural highlight, Prime Minister Modi will also call on the world-famous Estadio Alberto J. Armando, better known as Boca Juniors Stadium. Famous for its vibrant football culture, the visit highlights India's determination to enhance cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties with Argentina.

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Argentina is the third stop in PM Modi’s five-nation diplomatic tour, following his productive visits to Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago. During his Trinidad and Tobago visit, Modi was conferred with the ‘Order of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’—the country’s highest civilian honor, making him the first foreign leader to receive it. After concluding his engagement in Argentina, PM Modi will proceed to Brazil to join the 17th BRICS Summit, thereafter making a state visit to Namibia, further evidencing India's proactive global outreach and relations with consequential partners on continents.