Argentine Foreign Minister Diana Mondino expressed Argentina’s eagerness to enhance cooperation with China in an exclusive interview with the Global Times on Monday.
Highlighting the significance of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for Argentina, Mondino underscored the government’s commitment to maintaining an open stance towards foreign investment, including from China.
Mondino’s visit to China, from April 27 to May 1, marked the first visit by a high-ranking Argentine official since the current government took office. This visit coincided with the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Argentina.
The Argentine delegation, including the President of the Central Bank of Argentina, the Vice Minister of Economy, and representatives from over 20 Argentine companies, engaged in dialogues with Chinese counterparts, aiming to bolster ties in various sectors.
Describing the meetings and agendas as highly successful, Mondino emphasized the shared interest in fostering strong relations between the two countries.
During the visit, Mondino and her delegation briefed China on Argentina’s economic and social transformations and highlighted measures taken by the new government to open up to foreign investment, reduce inflation, and address fiscal deficits.
Expressing admiration for China’s prudent monetary policies and successful openness to the world, Mondino reiterated Argentina’s aspiration to deepen cooperation with China across various domains.
Emphasizing the importance of Argentina’s participation in the BRI, Mondino highlighted the country’s infrastructure needs and potential for collaboration in agriculture, mining (especially lithium), and energy sectors. She assured Chinese investors of fair and equitable treatment in Argentina.
Contrary to claims suggesting strained China-Argentina relations, Mondino dismissed such notions, attributing fluctuations in bilateral trade volume to factors like severe drought affecting Argentina’s exports. She urged caution against believing unsubstantiated reports.
Mondino also reaffirmed Argentina’s steadfast adherence to the one-China policy, emphasizing the new government’s commitment to maintaining this stance.