India and Argentina have formalised a partnership to enhance cooperation in the exploration and development of critical minerals, particularly lithium. The agreement was signed on Wednesday (February 19) in the presence of Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy and Raúl Alejandro Jalil, Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, the ministry said in a press note.

As per the statement from the Ministry of Mines, the countries discussed expanding collaboration in the mining sector, with a focus on lithium exploration and investment opportunities.

“A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), a PSU under the Ministry of Mines, and the Provincial Government of Catamarca, Argentina, which will pave the way for deeper collaboration in exploration and resource development of critical minerals,” the ministry said in its statement.

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Argentina holds significant lithium reserves and is considered a key partner for India in securing essential raw materials required for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage, the statement added.

India-Argentina Strengthen Lithium Partnership! Union Minister for Coal & Mines, Shri @kishanreddybjp, met H.E. Raúl Alejandro Jalil, Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, along with senior officials to discuss lithium exploration, mining opportunities & investment prospects. A key… pic.twitter.com/m4NgmFYeT2

— Ministry of Mines (@MinesMinIndia) February 19, 2025

The discussions also covered ongoing lithium exploration efforts by Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) and Greenko in the Catamarca region. The two sides explored the scope for greater Indian participation in Argentina’s mining sector, including potential investment, long-term supply agreements and joint ventures.

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The senior officials deliberated on policy frameworks, regulatory aspects, and sustainable mining practices, with the aim of ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership. The engagement also underscored the importance of knowledge exchange and infrastructure development to facilitate India’s involvement in Argentina’s  mining industry.

This agreement comes amidst India’s broader efforts to secure critical minerals essential for its clean energy transition and electric mobility goals. The country has been actively seeking partnerships with mineral-rich nations to strengthen its supply chains in the sector.

(With inputs from PTI)