MoS Margherita Inaugurates New Indian Embassy Chancery In Bolivia And Strengthens Bilateral Ties

Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, inaugurated the new Chancery building of the Embassy of India in La Paz, Bolivia, marking a significant milestone in India’s diplomatic outreach in South America. The event underscores India’s growing commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and deepening engagement with Bolivia.

The inauguration of the new Chancery building was described by MoS Margherita as a pivotal moment in advancing India’s diplomatic footprint in Bolivia. In a post on X, he highlighted that the new facility will serve as a platform for fostering stronger bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to facilitate more effective diplomatic operations and outreach.

During his visit, MoS Margherita held productive discussions with representatives of Bolivian business associations and entrepreneurs.

The talks focused on enhancing bilateral trade and investment, with particular emphasis on sectors such as minerals, textiles, tourism, and pharmaceuticals. Margherita encouraged Bolivian business leaders to explore opportunities in India’s dynamic and rapidly expanding market, reinforcing the potential for mutual economic growth.

In a gesture of respect, MoS Margherita paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at his bust in Mallasa Park, La Paz. He expressed deep reverence for the Father of the Nation and noted the admiration Bolivians hold for Gandhi’s ideals of peace and non-violence.

The event was a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Gandhi’s philosophy in fostering international goodwill.

The Minister was honoured by the Mayor of La Paz, Mr. Ivan Arias, in recognition of India’s diplomatic efforts and the warm relations between the two countries.

Margherita expressed gratitude for the honour and the warm welcome extended by the people of Bolivia, highlighting the importance of such gestures in strengthening people-to-people ties.

On Saturday, MoS Margherita launched the celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of India’s national song, Vande Mataram, at the Embassy of India in Bolivia.

The event was a cultural highlight, reflecting India’s rich heritage and the enduring resonance of its national symbols abroad.

As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa ke Naam’ initiative, MoS Margherita planted a tree at Mallasa Park in La Paz. The gesture honoured mothers and Mother Earth, symbolising India’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the nurturing spirit of motherhood. The initiative was warmly received by local authorities and residents.

The inauguration of the new Chancery building, coupled with high-level engagements and cultural events, marks a new chapter in India-Bolivia relations. The visit of MoS Margherita has not only enhanced diplomatic infrastructure but also reinforced the spirit of cooperation, mutual respect, and shared values between the two nations.

Based On ANI Report

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India Secures Strategic Lithium Deals in Argentina's 'Lithium Triangle' During PM Modi's Historic Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ground breaking bilateral visit to Argentina on July 5-6, 2025, marked a watershed moment in India's quest for critical mineral security, particularly lithium, as both nations deepened their strategic partnership across multiple sectors. This historic visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Argentina in 57 years—has resulted in significant agreements that position India as a key player in Argentina's lithium-rich landscape within the globally significant "Lithium Triangle."

Strategic Lithium Partnerships Take Center Stage

During the high-level discussions between Prime Minister Modi and Argentine President Javier Milei, critical mineral cooperation emerged as a cornerstone of bilateral relations. MEA Secretary (East) P. Kumaran emphasized that "Argentina is a part of the lithium triangle. It is of great interest to us". The strategic importance of this partnership cannot be overstated, as Argentina holds approximately 22 million metric tons of lithium reserves, making it the world's second-largest holder of lithium resources after Bolivia, accounting for around 20-21% of global lithium reserves.

India's lithium engagement in Argentina has already gained substantial momentum through multiple public and private sector initiatives. Two major Indian public sector companies—Coal India Limited and Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL)—have signed five concession agreements and are working on finalizing investments to produce, refine, and export lithium minerals. These agreements represent India's first-ever lithium exploration and mining projects undertaken by government companies, marking a significant milestone in the country's critical mineral security strategy.

KABIL's Pioneering Lithium Operations

The most significant development in India's lithium strategy came through KABIL's landmark agreement with Argentina's state-owned enterprise CAMYEN (Catamarca Minera Y Energética Sociedad Del Estado) in January 2024. This agreement grants KABIL exploration and exploitation rights for five lithium brine blocks—Cortadera-I, Cortadera-VII, Cortadera-VIII, Cateo-2022-01810132, and Cortadera-VI—covering approximately 15,703 hectares in Argentina's Catamarca province. The project involves an investment of approximately 200 crores (US$24 million) and represents a strategic move to secure India's lithium supply chain for its ambitious clean energy transition.

KABIL commenced exploration activities at these lithium blocks on October 4, 2024, with geological mapping and sampling activities near Fiambalá in the Tinogasta department of Catamarca Province. The company has also established a branch office in Catamarca, demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region. This initiative is particularly significant as it provides India with technical and operational experience in brine-type lithium exploration, exploitation, and extraction—crucial expertise for India's domestic lithium development programs.

Private Sector Participation And Investment

Beyond government initiatives, Indian private sector companies have also made substantial investments in Argentina's lithium sector. Two notable companies—Greenco from India and World Metal Alloys, an Indian-owned company based in the UAE—have secured lithium concessions in Argentina. These private sector investments complement the government's strategic approach, creating a comprehensive framework for India's lithium security.

The involvement of private companies demonstrates the commercial viability and strategic importance of Argentina's lithium resources. Greenco has entered into a prospecting contract with CAMYEN for 8,000 hectares in the northern area of Antofagasta de la Sierra, while World Metal Alloys has secured collaboration and exploration rights for 7,500 hectares in the Campo Blanco area. These agreements collectively represent nearly one million hectares of lithium-rich salt flats under various forms of Indian control or partnership.

Coal India's Expanding Lithium Strategy

Coal India Limited, India's largest coal producer, has significantly expanded its lithium acquisition strategy in Argentina. The company has been actively exploring opportunities to acquire lithium brine assets and has even considered a 50:50 joint venture with Argentina's state-majority energy company YPF. This partnership would focus on exploring, mining, and commercially utilizing lithium resources, marking Coal India's strategic diversification from its traditional coal operations.

The company has invited expressions of interest from experienced consultants to conduct technical due diligence on lithium brine assets in Argentina, demonstrating its serious commitment to the sector. Coal India's involvement is particularly significant as it represents the second Indian public sector unit to enter Argentina's lithium sector, following KABIL's pioneering efforts.

The Lithium Triangle: Geographic And Strategic Significance

Argentina's position within the "Lithium Triangle"—a region encompassing Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile—makes it a crucial strategic partner for India's energy transition. This geographical region, located in the Andes Mountains, contains approximately 54-58% of the world's lithium reserves and is characterized by unique geological conditions that concentrate lithium in salt flats (salares). The triangle encompasses about 150 internal drainage basins covering approximately 400,000 square kilometers, with Argentina's lithium resources primarily concentrated in the provinces of Catamarca, Jujuy, and Salta.

The strategic importance of the Lithium Triangle has been recognized globally, with lithium often referred to as "white gold" due to its critical role in battery technology for electric vehicles, mobile phones, laptops, and renewable energy storage systems. Argentina's lithium production is projected to increase dramatically, with the country expecting to produce 130,800 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent in 2025—a 75% increase from 2024.

Energy Security And Industrial Cooperation

The lithium agreements are part of a broader energy cooperation framework between India and Argentina. During the bilateral discussions, Prime Minister Modi emphasized India's growing energy and industrial needs, highlighting Argentina's potential as a "reliable partner" in supporting India's developmental journey. Argentina's energy profile is particularly attractive to India, as the country holds the world's second-largest shale gas reserves and fourth-largest shale oil reserves, alongside substantial conventional oil and gas deposits.

The energy cooperation extends beyond lithium to include potential partnerships in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. Argentina is developing the Argentina LNG project to explore the untapped Vaca Muerta shale formation, with plans to boost LNG exports to 30 million tons per year by 2030. This presents significant opportunities for India to diversify its energy supply sources and reduce dependence on traditional suppliers.

Bilateral Trade And Economic Partnership

The lithium deals are embedded within a broader framework of expanding bilateral trade relations. India-Argentina bilateral trade reached USD 5.23 billion in 2024, representing a 33% increase from the previous year, making India Argentina's fifth-largest trading partner. The trade relationship has shown remarkable resilience, with trade in the first quadrimester of 2025 registering an impressive 53.9% growth, valued at USD 2.055 billion.

Argentina serves as one of India's primary suppliers of vegetable oils, particularly soybean and sunflower oil, while India exports petroleum products, agrochemicals, textiles, organic chemicals, and pharmaceuticals to Argentina. The lithium partnership is expected to significantly enhance this trade relationship, creating new opportunities for technological cooperation and industrial development.

Regulatory And Investment Framework

The success of India's lithium ventures in Argentina is facilitated by favourable regulatory frameworks and investment incentives. Argentina introduced the "Régimen de Incentivo para Grandes Inversiones (RIGI)" in 2024, providing significant incentives for large-scale investments exceeding USD 200 million. This regime offers benefits including VAT and income tax advantages, exemptions from import and export duties, fiscal stability, and free availability of foreign currency.

The regulatory environment is particularly conducive to foreign investment, with no restrictions on foreign ownership of companies engaged in mineral exploration and extraction. This policy framework has attracted significant international investment in Argentina's lithium sector, with the country becoming increasingly important in global lithium supply chains.

Environmental And Social Considerations

The lithium extraction projects in Argentina operate within a complex environmental and social context. The salt flats where lithium is extracted are also critical ecosystems that support local communities and wildlife. Indian companies, particularly KABIL, have committed to operating according to international responsible mining standards, including IRMA guidelines, which encompass environmental, social, and governance aspects.

The projects face scrutiny from local communities and environmental groups concerned about water usage and ecosystem impact. However, companies like Sales de Jujuy have demonstrated positive engagement with local communities, with 65% of employees coming from indigenous communities and providing above-average salaries and community benefits.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Modi's historic visit to Argentina has successfully established India as a major stakeholder in the global lithium supply chain through strategic partnerships in the Lithium Triangle. The comprehensive agreements involving both public and private sector entities, combined with broader energy cooperation frameworks, demonstrate India's commitment to securing critical mineral resources for its clean energy transition. These partnerships not only enhance India's energy security but also strengthen diplomatic ties with a key South American partner, positioning both nations for sustainable economic growth in the emerging clean energy economy.

The lithium deals represent a paradigm shift in India's approach to resource security, moving from import dependence to strategic partnerships that ensure long-term supply stability. As both nations continue to implement these agreements, the India-Argentina lithium partnership is poised to become a model for South-South cooperation in the critical minerals sector, contributing to global efforts to accelerate the clean energy transition while ensuring equitable and sustainable development.

IDN

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Jaishankar, Bolivia's Foreign Minister Discusses Bilateral Ties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Bolivia's Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda engaged in discussions on March 20, 2025, aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between India and Bolivia.

The meeting culminated in the signing of agreements related to Quick Impact Projects, which are intended to foster collaboration in various sectors. This development follows the recent inauguration of India's new embassy in La Paz, symbolizing a commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.

In a post on X, Jaishankar emphasised the significance of their discussions, stating, "A comprehensive discussion on bilateral cooperation with FM Bolivia Celinda Sosa Lunda this afternoon.

The recent opening of our new Embassy in La Paz reflects our resolve to deepen the India-Bolivia partnership. Today's signing of the agreement on Quick Impact Projects is another step forward in that direction".

Earlier that day, Jaishankar also expressed India's full support for Brazil's presidency at COP30 during a meeting with Andre Aranha Correa do Lago, President of COP30 Amazonia. He highlighted India's dedication to climate action and cooperation with Brazil on global issues, reinforcing the importance of their partnership in forums such as G20 and BRICS.

The discussions with Bolivia underscore India's ongoing efforts to enhance its diplomatic and economic ties in Latin America. Both countries have expressed a mutual interest in collaborating across various sectors, including health, mining, and technology.

The recent agreements signify a positive trajectory in India-Bolivia relations, which have been marked by a series of high-level visits and cooperative initiatives over the years.

ANI

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IAEA Chief, Foreign Ministers of Bolivia, Hungary, Norway Arrive In Delhi For Raisina Dialogue

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Chief, along with the foreign ministers of Bolivia, Hungary, and Norway, has arrived in New Delhi for the ongoing Raisina Dialogue 2025.

This significant event, which commenced on March 17 and will run until March 19, is India's premier conference focused on geopolitics and geo-economics.

The Dialogue aims to address pressing global challenges and features participation from over 3,500 delegates representing approximately 125 countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Dialogue, which is themed "Kālachakra - People, Peace and Planet," emphasizing the interconnectedness of global issues.

Notably, the conference includes discussions across six thematic pillars such as political shifts, environmental sustainability, and digital transformation.

The presence of high-profile attendees like the IAEA Chief and various foreign ministers underscores the Dialogue's importance as a platform for international cooperation and dialogue among decision-makers and thought leaders from diverse sectors.

ANI

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Bolivia Joins South Africa In Genocide Case Against Israel At International Court of Justice

Sucre: Bolivia has formally joined South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Al Jazeera reported.

The South American country applied on October 8 to intervene in the case which accused Israel of perpetrating "genocidal acts" in violation of the Genocide Convention.

Bolivia's move puts it among a growing list of states who are party to this case. This includes a host of countries such as Colombia, Libya, Spain, Mexico, Palestine, Nicaragua and Turkey.

In November last year, the south American country has cut official ties with Israel over the conflict in Gaza. The minister of the Presidency Maria Nela Prada announced the country would send humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Bolivia "decided to break diplomatic relations with the Israeli state in repudiation and condemnation of the aggressive and disproportionate Israeli military offensive taking place in the Gaza Strip," Deputy Foreign Minister Freddy Mamani has announced last year.

Earlier this year in January, the ICJ ruled that Israel must do everything in its power to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and ensure United Nations-mandated investigators have "unimpeded access" to the enclave.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the court's interim ruling as "outrageous".

South Africa has since returned several times to the ICJ, arguing that Gaza's desperate humanitarian situation demands new emergency measures.

South Africa's lawyers had asked the ICJ in late May to impose emergency measures, saying Israel's attacks in Gaza's southern city Rafah must be stopped to ensure the survival of the Palestinian people. This ruling however was ignored by Israel.

It is significant to note that while ICJ rulings are legally binding, the court has no means to enforce them.

In its submission to the ICJ, Bolivia, which severed ties with Israel in November, argued, "Bolivia seeks to intervene since it considers that it has a responsibility to condemn the crime of genocide," it said.

Israel and Hamas have been engaged in conflict since October 7 last year where Israel saw the deaths of over 1200 nationals and in retaliation conducted targeted military actions over the hideouts of leaders of terrorist organisations Hamas and Hezbollah which were responsible for the dastardly act. It was seen that the brunt of the escalations between Israel and the terrorist groups also saw civilians caught in the crosshairs of the conflict.

According to the United Nations, over 40,000 lives were lost in Gaza since military action begun from both the sides.

Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), said in a post commemorating the first anniversary of the war that people in the enclave are continuing to endure "unspeakable suffering".

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed

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EAM Jaishankar Discusses Global, Regional Issues With His Counterparts At The NAM Summit

Kampala: In a series of bilateral meetings and engagements at the NAM summit in Uganda, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his counterparts from Bolivia, Azerbaijan and Venezuela on Friday.

In his meetings with the leaders, Jaishankar exchanged views on regional, global issues and discussed bilateral relations.

EAM Jaishankar met with the Bahraini Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani and discussed the ongoing developments in the region.

Jaishankar shared on X, "Always good to meet Bahraini FM Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. Discussed ongoing developments in the region."

Taking to X, Jaishankar also shared about his meeting with Venezuelan FM saying, "Good meeting with Venezuelan FM @yvangil. Discussed our economic, energy and development cooperation. Exchanged views on regional and global issues."

In conversation with his Azerbaijan counterpart, EAM Jaishankar discussed bilateral relations and regional matters.

Jaishankar posted on X, "Met outgoing NAM Chair Azerbaijan's FM @Bayramov_Jeyhun. Discussed our bilateral relationship and exchanged views on regional matters."

Jaishankar held a meeting with Bolivian Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda and cooperation in development and traditional medicine.

"Pleasure to meet FM of Bolivia Celinda Sosa Lunda Discussed development cooperation, traditional medicine and sustainable lifestyle," Jaishankar posted on X.

Jaishankar also discussed bilateral relations with his Serbian counterpart and posted on X, "Delighted to meet Serbian FM Ivica Dacic. Discussed advancing our time tested bilateral partnership. Exchanged assessments on respective regions."

Earlier today, EAM Jaishankar met Prime Minister of Nepal, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, on the sidelines of the summit on Friday.

"Meeting of Hon'ble EAM @DrSJaishankar with Rt. Hon'ble Prime Minister of Nepal @cmprachanda on sidelines of 19th NAM Summit," posted the Indian Embassy in Nepal on X.

EAM Jaishankar also shared glimpses of the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, which commenced here on Friday.The foreign minister can be seen meeting various foreign dignitaries participating in the tow-day summit.

Jaishankar who is leading the Indian delegation at the Summit arrived in Kampala on Thursday.

"Arrived in Kampala to represent India at the 19th NAM Summit. Looking forward to engaging colleagues over the coming two days," Jaishankar said in a post on X.

The 19th NAM Summit under Uganda's leadership is being held under the theme 'Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence' and brings together more than 120 developing countries on a platform of crucial historic significance.

The NAM is a forum of 120 countries that are not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc.

India wholeheartedly supports Uganda's theme for NAM and looks forward to engaging with NAM countries. As one of the leading and founding members of NAM, India remains committed to the principles and values of the movement, according to a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.

On the sidelines of the NAM Summit on Thursday, EAM Jaishankar held a meeting with counterparts from Egypt and Belarus.

During the meeting, Jaishankar and his Belarusian counterpart Sergei Aleinik exchanged views on cooperation between India and Belarus in various sectors.

The two leaders spoke about developments related to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Jaishankar took to social media platform X to share insights from the meeting held with Aleinik.

"A useful meeting with Belarusian FM Sergei Aleinik. Exchanged views on India- Belarus cooperation in various fields. Also discussed developments pertaining to the Ukraine conflict," Jaishankar posted on X.

He also held a meeting with his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry. The two leaders appreciated his assessment of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

During the meeting, Jaishankar and Sameh Shoukry noted the continued progress of bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, "Delighted to meet Egyptian FM Sameh Shoukry. Appreciate his assessment and insights on the ongoing conflict in Gaza. We also noted the continued progress of our bilateral cooperation following the exchange of visits of our leaders in 2023."

In Kampala, Jaishankar also met Maldivian foreign minister Moosa Zameer and the two ministers exchanged views on the ongoing high-level discussions on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. They further held discussions to expedite the completion of ongoing development projects in the Maldives and cooperation within SAARC and NAM.

Jaishankar met Angolan Foreign Minister Tete Antonio and held discussions on the expanding collaboration between India and Angola as well as broader India-Africa cooperation.

"Good meeting with Angolan FM @amb_tete. Discussed the expanding India-Angola and India-Africa cooperation. Also spoke about cooperation in multilateral fora. Thanked him for extending visa-free arrangement for Indian nationals," said Jaishankar in a post on X.

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India, Bolivia Discuss Avenues For Strengthening Trade And Investments

New Delhi: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday met Bolivian Minister of Development Planning Sergio Armando Cusicanqui Loayza and discussed the avenues for strengthening trade and investment.

Taking to Twitter, the ministry said, "Union Finance Minister Smt. @nsitharaman met Bolivian Minister of Development Planning Mr. Sergio Armando Cusicanqui Loayza in New Delhi today. The two ministers discussed avenues for strengthening India-Bolivia #trade, #investment and economic cooperation. They agreed to encourage B2B linkages through respective chambers of commerce and industry."

India and Bolivia enjoy friendly and cordial relations. In 2019, the then-President of India, Ram Nath Kovind visited Bolivia, becoming the first-ever visit by an Indian president to Bolivia. Bolivia also conferred the highest State Honour of Bolivia on the President of India.

8 memorandum of understanding (MoUs) were signed between India and Bolivia concerning fields of culture, visa waiver for diplomats, the exchange between diplomatic academies, mining, space, traditional medicine, the establishment of the Centre of Excellence in IT and the Bi-Oceanic Railway project.

Both sides also agreed to work together for the exploration and extraction of the vast Lithium deposits of Bolivia.

Lithium is a key resource used in making batteries that India needs for its clean technology initiatives such as increased use of electric cars.

Under the framework of South-South Cooperation, India also gave a USD 100 million Line of Credit to Bolivia for financing development projects.

According to the Institute of Statistics of Bolivia (INEI), trade between India and Bolivia during the calendar year 2015 (January to December) was USD 315.249 million – exports from India to Bolivia were US USD 118.893 million and imports by India from Bolivia valued at USD 196.356 million.

During the same period in 2016, according to INEI statistics, the total trade was USD 228.791 million - exports from India to Bolivia were valued at USD 106.642 million (a decline of 10.3 per cent) while imports by India from Bolivia were valued at USD122.149 million (a decline of 37.79 per cent).

During the first four months of 2017 (January to April), the total trade as per INEI figures is valued at USD 200.475 million (Indian exports at USD 38.798 million; Imports by India from Bolivia at USD 161.677 million).

India mainly exports automobiles, iron and steel, pharmaceuticals, machinery, rubber and plastic products and yarns and textiles. It imports gold, leather, fertilizers and animal feed from Bolivia.

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India, Latin American and the Caribbean Countries Need To Speak In One Voice Globally: MoS Meenakashi Lekhi

New Delhi: India, Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) countries need to speak in one voice globally in the true spirit of South-South Cooperation, Minister of State of Ministry of External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi said.

Speaking at the Valedictory Session on day 2 of the 9th CII India-LAC Conclave organised in New Delhi by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in association with the MEA and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, she said that G20 under India’s presidency has directed particular attention toward addressing the concerns of the Global South.

Lekhi said that the unified voice would be particularly important in the current multipolar world that calls for negotiated engagements on climate change mitigation, and the dismantling of trade barriers, among others.

In this context, she said the 9th CII India-LAC Conclave needs to be viewed as a call to action to bring alive more engagements between the two regions.

Stating that India has set sights on becoming the third largest economy by the year 2047 when the country completes 100 years of Independence, Lekhi said that when India does well, the world does well, and urged LAC countries to work closely with India by leveraging the complementarity that exists between the two regions.

Delcy Eloina Rodriguez Gomez, Executive Vice President and Minister of People’s Power for Economy, Finance and Foreign Trade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in her address said the two regions need to consider conducting trade in local currency.

Sunil Barthwal, Secretary – Commerce, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India said that considering that imports from India constitute less than 2 per cent of LAC’s total imports, there is significant scope for expansion of India-LAC bilateral trade. While efforts are underway to double the bilateral trade to USD 100 billion, that will also call for a new approach to broad base the trade exchanges, such as integrating with diversified global value chains in a re-globalised world.

Barthwal directed attention to the need for closer India-LAC cooperation in the area of energy transition. Fresh thinking is called for in areas like renewals, battery manufacturing, energy storage technology, chemical industry impact, etc., that are aligned with the Net Zero goal.

While stating that talks are underway for various FTAs, Barthwal suggested a Joint Economic and Trade Cooperation model for cooperation between India and LAC. He also called for close India-LAC cooperation on issues in MC13 at the WTO.

Narayan Sethuramon, Co-Chairman, CII National Committee on EXIM and Managing Director, Sanmar Matrix Metals Limited in his opening remarks said the Conclave had the participation of 300+ delegates from 26 LAC countries and 10 non-LAC countries, as well as 500 delegates from India. Over 350 B2B formal meetings were conducted. He said the Conclave has opened up several new avenues for India-LAC economic and business partnerships.

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Indian Navy’s Kalvari Class Submarine INS Vela Visits Oman's Port Salalah

Indian Navy’s Kalvari class submarine INS Vela entered Oman’s port Salalah for an OTR on February 28, 2023. In its bid to ensure better cooperation with friendly countries, the Indian navy deploys its warships actively to enhance security in the Indian Ocean region and engages closely with all maritime neighbours for this purpose. Indian naval ships and submarines undertake OTRs regularly at friendly and foreign ports.

According to the navy, INS Vela’s visit to Salalah is reflective of the strong, deep multi-layered ties between India and Oman. This will not only improve ties between both nations but also will help keep an eye on Chinese movements in the region.

About INS Vela

INS Vela is the fourth submarine in the series of six project-75 submarines. It was commissioned into the Indian navy on November 25, 2021. Its formal commissioning took place at the naval dockyard in Mumbai. INS Vela is deployed in the western naval command’s submarine fleet. It carries the legacy of the old INS Vela, which was commissioned on August 31, 1973 as the lead boat of Vela class submarines.

The meaning of INS Vela is Vigilant, Valiant, Victorious, Status, and In service. It was commissioned by former Indian Naval chief Admiral Karambir Singh. It is fitted with advanced weapons and sensors and has all these integrated into the Submarine Tactical Integrated Combat system known as SUBTICS.

About Scorpène -Class Submarines

The Scorpene class submarines are diesel-electric submarines jointly developed by the French naval group and Spanish company Navantia. It has diesel propulsion and additional air-independent propulsion. It has three subtypes: the CM 2000 conventional diesel-electric version, the AM-2000 air-independent propulsion derivative, the downsized CA-2000 coastal submarine and the enlarged S-BR. India has a total of six Scorpène class submarines one of which is INS Vela. The Indian Navy’s visit to Salah is a reflection of mutually strong ties between both India and Oman. Last week INS Sindhukesari visited Indonesia from February 22 to 24, 2023.

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MoS Meenakshi Lekhi Reaches Bolivia On Final Leg of 4-Nation Trip

La Paz: Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi on Saturday arrived in the Bolivian Capital La Paz in the final leg of her four-nation trip.

This will be her first visit to Bolivia, the external affairs minister had announced earlier.

"Arrived in La Paz, the World's highest capital on my first bilateral visit to Bolivia. Looking forward to interacting with Foreign Minister & other dignitaries to review cooperation. Will join activities to strengthen ties between India and Bolivia," minister Lekhi posted on her official Twitter account.

During her visit, the minister will call on President Luis Arce Catacora and hold meetings with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Hydrocarbons and Energies and other dignitaries and review cooperation between the two countries.

Lekhi began her eight-day official trip by visiting Cuba on January 13-14. During her Cuba visit she met with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel and discussed matters of bilateral importance and political and economic cooperation. The MoS highlighted the willingness of both countries to continue strengthening bilateral ties of friendship and cooperation, on the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations on January 12.

Lekhi later travelled to Guatemala from January 15-17 where she called on the President of Guatemala, Alejandro Giammatte, and the Vice President. She also held detailed discussions with the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, the Economy, Public Health and Social Assistance, and Energy and Mines on a range of topics. She interacted with the Indian community living there and appreciated their contribution in strengthening India-Guatemala relations.

During her visit to San Salvador, from January 17-19, minister Lekhi called on President Nayib Bukele and had meetings with other ministers

After the meeting, Lekhi had tweeted, "Delighted to call on Hon'ble President of El Salvador Mr. Nayib Bukele @nayibbukele and discuss with him full range of cooperation between our two friendly countries. Sincere thanks to him for sparing time despite extremely busy schedule.

The MoS also addressed and interact with the Indian diaspora and participated in yoga events, besides participating in Indian film festivals in these countries.

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INS Tarangini At Port Said In Egypt, For Lokayan 22

Cairo: INS Tarangini, the first Sail Training Ship of the Indian Navy made a port call at Port Said in Egypt on Wednesday as part of Lokayan 2022, a 14-nation voyage of the ship.

The ship was welcomed by officials of the Egyptian Navy and the Embassy of India.

During the port call, the ship will participate in various official and professional interactions and social engagements.

The ship will remain open for visitors during her stay. Indian and friendly foreign country sea trainees are embarked onboard for sail training.

INS Tarangini embarked for Lokayan 2022, a 14-nation voyage, on April 6 this year from the Naval Jetty at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi.

During her seven-month-long voyage, the ship will call on 17 ports covering a distance of 17,485 nautical miles. The voyage was flagged off by Rear Admiral Antony George, Chief of Staff, Southern Naval Command.

The voyage includes the main aspect of training under trainee officers that form a part of the first Training Squadron, as well as to participate in prestigious Tall Ship Race events in Harlingen, Antwerp and Aalborg.

"INS Tarangini, the sail training ship of Southern Naval Command is embarking for a seven-month long voyage for participating in tall ship races as well as to impart training to our sea training. The ship will touch 17 ports and visit 14 countries," Rear Admiral Antony George had said earlier.

On the occasion of the 75th Independence Day as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, Indian Navy personnel onboard INS Tarangini hoist the national flag at sea in Europe, making it a highlight of the Tarangini's voyage.

The ship will come back to Kochi in November this year.

INS Tarangini is a three-masted barque, commissioned in 1997 as a sail training ship for the Indian Navy. The ship was constructed in Goa to a design by the British naval architect Colin Mudie and launched on December 1, 1995.

She became the first Indian naval ship to circumnavigate the globe in 2003-04.

The year 2022 is of particular significance since it marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Egypt.

Egypt and India also enjoy cordial defence relations. There was close cooperation between the Air Forces, with efforts at jointly developing a fighter aircraft in the 1960s. IAF pilots had also trained Egyptian pilots from the 1960s until 1984. In the recent past, since 2015, there have been several high-level exchanges of visits by defence delegations.

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US Wary of China's Expanding Footprints In Latin America

Beijing: US policymakers and military officials have raised concerns about China's growing presence in Latin America while Washington shifted its focus toward the Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, a think tank Council on Foreign Relations said.

Over the past two decades, China has developed close economic and security ties with many Latin American countries, including Brazil and Venezuela. But Beijing's growing sway in the region has raised concerns in Washington and beyond.

China is South America's top trading partner and a major source of both foreign direct investment and lending in energy and infrastructure, including through its Belt and Road Initiative. It has invested heavily in Latin America's space sector and has strengthened its military ties with several countries, particularly Venezuela.

Washington is wary of all these developments, and critics say Beijing is leveraging its economic might to further its strategic goals. "We are losing our positional advantage in this Hemisphere and immediate action is needed to reverse this trend," argued Admiral Craig S. Faller, the former head of U.S. Southern Command, in 2021.

China's role in Latin America has grown rapidly since 2000, promising economic opportunity even while raising concerns over Beijing's influence. China's state firms are major investors in the region's energy, infrastructure, and space industries, and the country has surpassed the United States as South America's largest trading partner, as per the think tank.

Beijing has also expanded its diplomatic, cultural, and military presence. Most recently, it has leveraged its support in the fight against COVID-19, supplying the region with medical equipment, loans, and hundreds of millions of vaccine doses.

But the United States and its allies fear that Beijing is using these relationships to pursue its geopolitical goals, including the further isolation of Taiwan, and to bolster authoritarian regimes. U.S. President Joe Biden, who sees China as a "strategic competitor" in the region, is seeking ways to counter its growing sway.

In 2000, the Chinese market accounted for less than 2 per cent of Latin America's exports, but China's rapid growth and resulting demand drove the region's subsequent commodities boom. Over the next eight years, trade grew at an average annual rate of 31 per cent, reaching a value of USD 180 billion in 2010.

By 2021, trade totalled USD 450 billion, and economists predict that it could exceed USD 700 billion by 2035. China is currently South America's top trading partner and the second-largest for Latin America as a whole, after the United States.

Latin American exports to China are mainly soybeans, copper, petroleum, oil, and other raw materials that the country needs to drive its industrial development. In return, the region mostly imports higher-value-added manufactured products, a trade some experts say has undercut local industries with cheaper Chinese goods. Beijing has free trade agreements in place with Chile, Costa Rica, and Peru, and 20 Latin American countries have so far signed on to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Talks on a free trade agreement with Ecuador began in February 2022.

China's focus on soft power--including strengthening cultural and educational ties--has helped Beijing build political goodwill with local governments and present itself as a viable alternative partner to the United States and European states.

Venezuela became the region's top purchaser of Chinese military hardware after the U.S. government prohibited all commercial arms sales to the country beginning in 2006. Between 2009 and 2019, Beijing reportedly sold more than USD 615 million worth of weapons to Venezuela.

Bolivia and Ecuador have also purchased millions of dollars worth of Chinese military aircraft, ground vehicles, air defence radars, and assault rifles. Cuba has sought to strengthen military ties with China, hosting the Chinese People's Liberation Army for several port visits.

Despite U.S. warnings against using Huawei equipment, which policymakers say leaves countries vulnerable to Chinese cyber threats, Argentina and Brazil, among others, depend on it for their cellular networks.

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Chinese Made Bolivia Air Force Jet Crashes Into House

Chinese Karakorum-8 two-seat intermediate jet trainer of PAF

A woman has been killed and her brother injured when a Bolivian air force jet crashed into their home in Sacaba, a city of about 150,000 people in the central province of Cochabamba.

There were no other casualties, authorities said.

Witnesses said they saw two people eject from the aircraft before the plane exploded and crashed into the two-storey house.

Authorities praised neighbours for rushing to the scene with buckets of water to douse the flames. Those civilian first responders also turned off the gas and electricity to deny fuel to the fire.

Media outlets said the woman killed was 22 years old.

The air force identified the plane as a K-8, a two-seat intermediate jet trainer and light combat aircraft designed and produced jointly by China and Pakistan.

Bolivian purchased six K-8s a decade ago, intending to use them for drug interdiction.

Colonel Jhonny Corrales, the regional police commander, told media that one of the pilots was under medical observation at a hospital in Cochabamba city, while the other was undergoing debriefing about the accident.

"The pilots are being attended to," Air Force Colonel Juan Ballester told reporters at the scene.

The pilots encountered mechanical problems while on a training flight, according to Corrales, who said that the surviving occupant of the house was admitted to a hospital in Cochabamba.

Air force investigators were already at the crash site, along with firefighters and members of several law enforcement agencies.

Two air force pilots died a year ago in a crash during a training flight in Cochabamba province.

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Rare Earths, Their Strategic Significance, China's Monopoly & Why It Matters To The Quad

New Delhi: Rare earths are 17 minerals that are difficult to find and obtain in most parts of the world. They are important because without them, almost all our lives will come to a standstill as they are used in a plethora of things — mobile phones, cars, airplanes, missiles, radars etc, Gupta explained.

China has over time acquired global domination of rare earths. At one point, China produced 90 per cent of the rare earths the world needs. Today, however, it has come down to 60 per cent. The remaining is produced by other countries, including the Quad.

Of the 17 rare earths, neodymium is arguably the most needed in the world right now. Electric vehicles cannot function without this and lithium, which is mostly found in Bolivia.

Gupta explained that without neodymium, an iPhone cannot vibrate, air-pods would not work and neither would wind turbines. This is because for all of them to work, they need to be powered by Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM), which are the most powerful permanent magnets. Other elements like terbium, tritium and europium are crucial to targeting mechanisms in all weapons systems.

China’s Monopoly

As of 2018, China had 44 million tons or 36.7 per cent of the world’s rare earth deposits, Brazil has 22 per cent, Vietnam 18 per cent, Russia 10 per cent and India has 5.8 per cent. The rest of the world, including the US and Japan, have 10.9 per cent of rare earths.

“India has more rare earth deposits than Australia and the US combined,” Gupta said.

The process to obtain rare earths is environmentally destructive and produces radioactive waste. “Increasingly, countries around the world have gone away from refining metals like these. China has lax environmental laws and has endless expanses of deserts and areas where nobody lives. So deliberately, China has made its environmental laws such that it could pollute as no one else could, and other countries who mine these minerals could send it to China to process,” Gupta said.

China leveraged its lax environmental laws by way of an indirect ecological subsidy in the rare metal industry. However, the turning point came in 2010 when the world realised that China had a crippling monopoly where it could punish any country by controlling the supply of the rare earth metals.

That year, China stopped its supply of rare earths to Japan after a Chinese fishing boat was arrested near the disputed Senkaku Islands. To fulfil Japan’s needs, two Japanese companies, Sojitz & JOGMEC, invested $250 million in an Australian mining corporation called Lynas. Now, one-third of Japan’s needs are fulfilled by these companies, reducing dependence on China.

However, China imposed restrictions on exports of rare metals that same year, pushing the price of these metals up nine times. This is how much China controls these materials, explained Gupta.

Strategic Asset & Liability

While Japan managed to cut down its dependence on Chinese rare earths to 60 per cent from 91.3 per cent, the US relies on China for 80 per cent of its rare earth needs.

“One has to see their natural wealth as a strategic asset or the lack of it as a strategic liability. India has not been able to use its natural wealth as a strategic asset, which needs to be corrected,” noted Gupta.

Despite more ore than the US, India only mined 3,000 tons of rare earths in 2020 while the western nation mined 38,000 tons. The Indian Ocean Region, including India’s coastline, is rich in mineral sands.

Meanwhile, Australia mined 17,000 tons and China mined 1,40,000 tons. The same year, the US had 16 per cent of the production of the world’s rare earths, Australia had 7 per cent while India was at 1 per cent.

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India Makes Moves To Tackle Chinese Dominance In Lithium Market

India plans to buy Lithium to ensure supplies that could potentially last decades and make India self-reliant. New Delhi has started a massive effort to make India a world leader in Lithium batteries

Lithium is a metal of utmost importance. It is everywhere today. It's the juice that powers our smartphones, tablets, cameras, laptops and even cars. This element is the driver of the technology age. And it could dictate the future of civilization.

Lithium is used to make batteries. Almost everything today and tomorrow, will run on batteries.

India plans to buy Lithium to ensure supplies that could potentially last decades and make India self-reliant. New Delhi has started a massive effort to make India a world leader in Lithium batteries.

A giant stockpile will allow Indian companies to make batteries for all the gadgets.

The strategy to acquire Lithium has three steps.

First, secure supplies from the largest reserves in the world.

Two, build infrastructure to process Lithium, Like refineries.

And third, leverage alliances to enter the global markets.

India is working on all three fronts.

First, the supplies.

New Delhi is going straight to the source. Argentina, Chile and Bolivia have largest stockpiles of Lithium.

A new company namely Khanij Bidesh India Limited. It was incorporated by three state-owned companies NALCO, Hindustan Copper and Mineral Exploration Limited.

Khanij Bidesh India limited has a very specific mandate. It will acquire strategic mineral assets like Lithium and Cobalt.

The foundation has already been laid This company inked a pact with a firm in Argentina.

Together they'll hunt for reserves. Chile and Bolivia are the two other potential sources.

As of last year, India was the largest importer of Lithium-ion batteries. This is the most commonly used battery in portable electronics like smartphones and tablets.

Since 2016, there has been a four fold jump in imports. India bought batteries worth 1.2 billion dollars in 2019-20. A large chunk of this business went to China. India was buying batteries from China.

Of course, we want to change that India now wants to make batteries at home. But, it needs raw materials first. So it is reaching out to Argentina, Chile and Bolivia that are the top three countries with the largest lithium reserves in the world.

Now to step two of India's strategy, infrastructure.

India will build its first Lithium refinery in Gujarat. A state-owned company will invest one thousand crore Rupees for this. That's more than one hundred million dollars.

The facility will process Lithium ore to produce battery-grade Lithium.

That brings us to step three, competing in the global markets.

For this, India will have to eat into China's global market share. Reports say Chinese firms control almost half of the global Lithium production.

And China has a 73 per cent share in global cell manufacturing capacity.

It's time to change that.. 

India is making the moves. Australia wants to collaborate with India. The Australian High Commissioner in India Barry O'Farrell issued a statement this week.

He said India and Australia both stood to gain from the promise of expanding trade in Lithium.

Australia is one of the largest producers of Lithium. It has a reserve of more than six million tonnes. India could leverage these supplies. And Australia is ready to offer them. The envoy said, Australia was well placed to support India's ambitions around the development of new economic sectors.

This is a tough game, ramping up manufacturing depends on investment. But the biggest challenge here is the procurement of Lithium. Lithium makes up only 0.002 per cent of the earth's crust. The supply is scarce. And securing that is India's top priority.

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