Why in news?
Argentina featured in the news during July 2025 due to trade negotiations and discussions on lithium exploration between India and Argentina. Additionally, many aspirants sought clarity on Argentina’s geography for map‑based questions in competitive exams.
Geographical overview
- Argentina is the second‑largest country in South America, stretching from the tropical north to the sub‑Antarctic south. Its capital is Buenos Aires.
- Boundaries: It is bordered by Chile to the west (along the Andes Mountains), Bolivia and Paraguay to the north, Brazil and Uruguay to the north‑east, and the South Atlantic Ocean to the east and south.
- Major regions:
- The Pampas: Vast fertile grasslands in central Argentina that are the heart of the country’s agriculture and cattle ranching.
- Patagonia: A sparsely populated plateau in the south with steppe grasslands, glacial lakes and oil and gas reserves. It extends to Tierra del Fuego and the southernmost city, Ushuaia.
- Andes Mountains: A towering mountain chain along the western border, including Mount Aconcagua (6,960 m), the highest peak in the Americas.
- Gran Chaco and Mesopotamia: Sub‑tropical forests, wetlands and savannas in the north. The Iguazú Falls straddle the border with Brazil.
India–Argentina relations
- Diplomatic ties were established in 1949. Both countries are part of the Global South and support multipolarity and reform of international institutions.
- Trade: Bilateral trade stands at around US $6 billion. India imports vegetable oils (soybean and sunflower), copper and leather; it exports automobiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and textiles.
- Energy cooperation: India’s ONGC Videsh Ltd has stakes in Argentine oil fields, while Indian companies are exploring lithium reserves in Argentina’s Lithium Triangle for electric‑vehicle batteries.
- Cultural links: Interest in Argentine football and tango is high among Indians. Yoga, Ayurveda and Bollywood have a growing following in Argentina.
This digest aims to present complex current affairs in a reader‑friendly manner. Understanding the background, context and implications of news events helps aspirants develop nuanced perspectives for exams and informed citizenship.