Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, along with the Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and senior officials, met with H.E. Raúl Alejandro Jalil, Governor of Catamarca, Argentina, in New Delhi to discuss enhanced cooperation in the mining sector, particularly in lithium exploration and investment. A key outcome of the meeting was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Mines, and the Provincial Government of Catamarca. This agreement paves the way for deeper collaboration in mineral exploration, resource development, and long-term investment partnerships. 

Argentina, a major player in the global lithium market as part of the 'Lithium Triangle,' holds vast reserves of this critical mineral, essential for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage. The meeting covered ongoing lithium exploration efforts in Catamarca, including projects involving Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) and Greenko, and the potential for expanding Indian investment in Argentina’s mining sector. Both nations explored opportunities for joint ventures, technology partnerships, and sustainable mining practices to ensure a reliable supply of lithium for India’s growing green energy ambitions. 

Discussions also focused on regulatory frameworks, infrastructure support, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that could strengthen India’s role in the Latin American mining industry. Argentina’s government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering international partnerships and streamlining policies to attract responsible and sustainable mining investments. With the global demand for lithium projected to rise sharply due to the expansion of electric mobility and energy storage solutions, securing lithium supply chains is a strategic priority for India. 

The MoU marks a significant step towards resource security and economic collaboration, reinforcing India’s commitment to diversifying its mineral sourcing beyond traditional suppliers. The Indian government has been actively pursuing agreements with lithium-rich nations to reduce import dependency and support the country's transition to clean energy. As part of this initiative, Indian companies are expected to play a larger role in lithium exploration, processing, and refining, ensuring a stable supply chain for domestic battery manufacturers and the renewable energy sector. 

With India's ambitious targets for electric vehicle adoption and renewable energy expansion, the strategic partnership with Argentina could prove instrumental in meeting future demand. By tapping into Argentina’s lithium reserves and fostering a sustainable supply ecosystem, India aims to position itself as a global leader in the electric mobility revolution while strengthening its economic and diplomatic ties with Latin America.