India, Argentina Enhance Cooperation in Lithium Exploration

India and Argentina are strengthening cooperation in lithium exploration and mining investments, with a new MoU paving the way for deeper collaboration in securing critical minerals for EV batteries and renewable energy storage.

February 20, 2025. By Mrinmoy Dey

India and Argentina are enhancing cooperation in the mining sector, particularly in lithium exploration and investment opportunities. Argentina, known for its vast lithium reserves as part of the 'Lithium Triangle’, is a crucial partner for India in securing essential minerals required for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage.

Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, along with the Secretary, Ministry of Mines, and senior officials of the Ministry of Mines, held a meeting with Raúl Alejandro Jalil, Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, in New Delhi to discuss on the above-mentioned agendas.

A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd. (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 discussions covered ongoing lithium exploration efforts by Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) and Greenko in Catamarca and the possibilities of increasing the participation of Indian companies in mining projects in Argentina. Both sides explored avenues for investment, long-term supply agreements, and joint ventures that would help strengthen India's access to this critical mineral, shared the Ministry of Mines in a statement.

“Senior officials from both sides engaged in discussions on policy frameworks, regulatory aspects, and sustainable mining practices to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership. Additionally, there was a strong emphasis on knowledge exchange and infrastructure support to enhance India's engagement in Argentina’s mining sector,” it said.

With the signing of the MoU, India and Argentina have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties in the critical minerals domain. This collaboration is expected to accelerate lithium exploration projects, enhance resource security, and create new opportunities for Indian companies in the Latin American mining landscape.

Tags:

Business

Ministry of Mines

Lithium exploration

Critical mineral sourcing

Critical minerals for clean energy

G. Kishan Reddy

Raúl Alejandro Jalil

Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd.

Lithium Triangle

Lithium for EV battery