China Warns Argentina Against Cutting Ties with Major Countries
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Chinese foreign ministry cautioned Argentina against severing ties with major nations such as China and Brazil, labeling it a “serious mistake” in the South American country’s diplomacy. Emphasizing the significance of China as an important trading partner, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that Argentina’s elected government regards relations with China with utmost importance.
The warning comes after the recent election of Javier Milei as Argentina’s new president. A right-wing libertarian, Milei has openly criticized China and Brazil, expressing his unwillingness to engage with “communists” and his preference for stronger ties with the United States.
Furthermore, Diana Mondino, an economist who is speculated to become Argentina’s foreign minister under the Milei administration, conveyed to Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency that her country would not join the BRICS group. Argentina had previously been invited to join the bloc, which consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Mondino also indicated that Argentina would cease interaction with the governments of China and Brazil when questioned about encouraging trade with those countries. In response to these remarks, Mao stressed the economic complementarity and potential for cooperation between China and Argentina, expressing China’s willingness to continue working together to promote stability and long-term bilateral relations.
It remains to be seen how Argentina’s new government will navigate its diplomatic relationships, particularly with major nations like China and Brazil, as it sets its course for the future.
