A high-level interactive session hosted by the Ministry of Steel brought senior diplomats together to advance strategic collaboration in the steel and mining sectors and to outline the roadmap for Bharat Steel 2026, an international conference-cum-exhibition scheduled for April 16-17, 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The meeting provided a forum for India and partner countries to discuss supply chain resilience, technology exchange and cooperation in raw material sourcing. Argentina and India explored new possibilities for cooperation in strategic mining as part of efforts to deepen bilateral engagement.

Mariano Caucino, the Argentine Ambassador to India, conveyed appreciation for the opportunity to participate and presented prospective areas of bilateral synergy in mining that could complement India's raw material security objectives. The ambassador outlined interest in closer technical collaboration, information sharing on mineral exploration and potential industry linkages that can support downstream steel production. His remarks were presented to the diplomatic community in the context of preparations for the April summit.

Sandeep Pondrik, Secretary at the Ministry of Steel, emphasised the pivotal role of the steel industry in powering India's industrial and economic transformation and set out capacity targets of 300 million tonnes (mn t) by 2030 and 400 mn t by 2035, aiming to position India as a global leader in steel production. He invited international partners to engage as the domestic industry accelerates modernisation and transitions towards low-carbon production pathways and advanced process technologies. The secretary reaffirmed a commitment to building resilient and sustainable global supply chains founded on innovation, efficiency and environmental responsibility.

The session provided a preview of Bharat Steel 2026 and reiterated India's strategy to strengthen raw material security, accelerate technology transfer, advance green and sustainable steel production and foster meaningful global collaboration without compromising sustainability goals. Representatives from the diplomatic community registered strong engagement and expressed enthusiasm to participate in the summit alongside industry and policy stakeholders. Organisers expect the event to serve as a global platform for dialogue, innovation exchange and strategic partnerships in the steel and associated mining sectors.