The recent triumph of outspoken right-wing candidate Javier Milei in the Argentine presidential election is anticipated to present challenges for the nation’s relationship with China. Chinese experts suggest that bilateral ties might undergo a trial period until common interests are identified, despite President-elect Milei’s tough rhetoric on China during the election campaign.
Milei’s victory, with a wider-than-expected margin, reflects voter discontent with the political mainstream, securing 56 percent of the vote against Peronist Economy Minister Sergio Massa’s just over 44 percent. This outcome has prompted Chinese observers to call on the president-elect to value long-term friendship and cooperation with China, especially considering the formidable economic challenges he faces.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning congratulated Argentina on the election’s smooth conduct and Milei on his presidency. Mao emphasized the positive momentum in China-Argentina relations, which has yielded tangible benefits for both nations. China remains committed to developing bilateral ties strategically and over the long term, expressing readiness to work with Argentina for mutual development and revitalization through win-win cooperation.
Given Milei’s radical remarks during the election, Wang Youming, Director of the Institute of Developing Countries at the China Institute of International Studies, believes that Argentina, grappling with economic difficulties, is unlikely to sever ties with China. China is Argentina’s second-largest trade partner and its primary purchaser of agricultural products. Wang suggests that some of Milei’s comments were likely campaign rhetoric and that, as the new leader, he will recognize China’s indispensable role in supporting Argentina’s economic recovery.
Yuan Dongzhen, Deputy Director of the Latin American Institute of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, concurs, asserting that complete decoupling from China is implausible for Argentina. However, he acknowledges the possibility of a trial period in bilateral exchanges under the far-right leadership.
Experts caution that if the new government seeks to exclude China from its market, Argentina could bear the consequences. While predicting no severe setback in bilateral ties, Wang anticipates potential bumps in the road compared to the smoother relations during the previous left-wing government.
Often referred to as the “Argentine Trump,” Milei’s victory is expected to usher in a period of neoliberalism marked by marketization, privatization, and liberalization. Despite congratulating Milei, former US President Donald Trump, and drawing parallels with the “Make America Great Again” slogan, some worry about the potential for a dramatic change in Argentina’s international role and its impact on Latin American geopolitics.
Milei’s stance against the BRICS mechanism raises concerns about Argentina’s potential membership in the group. While Argentina was invited during the 15th BRICS summit, Milei’s public criticism creates uncertainty. Mao affirmed that BRICS is an open platform, welcoming any willing country to join.
Milei’s election victory introduces an element of uncertainty to Latin America’s political landscape, traditionally marked by left-wing dominance. This shift may influence the left-right power struggle in the region, particularly with elections looming in Mexico and Venezuela next year.