China Issues Warning to Argentina Over Potential Diplomatic Shift
Argentina may not join BRICS and could face economic repercussions if it moves away from its current relationship with China.
Javier Milei, Argentina’s new president, speaks during an election night rally at the party headquarters in Buenos Aires, Argentina, November 19, 2023. Milei’s offering a new visions for the nation's future. Photo by Anadolu Images.
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hina’s foreign ministry issued a stern warning to Argentina on Tuesday, November 21, labeling any potential severance of bilateral ties as a “serious mistake.” The statement follows the electoral victory of Argentina’s right-wing libertarian Javier Milei, who has publicly denounced dealings with communist regimes, including China.
Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, stated during a news briefing that the flourishing relationship between China and Argentina should not be jeopardized. Mao’s comments underscore China’s concerns over Milei’s prior criticisms of China and his likening of the Chinese government to an “assassin.”
The president-elect’s stance marks a significant departure from outgoing President Alberto Fernandez’s policy, which embraced China as a key ally and “true friend” to Argentina. Fernandez’s recent visit to Beijing reaffirmed commitments to collaborate within international frameworks like the G20 and BRICS.
Argentina would not be joining BRICS
Diana Mondino, poised to become the foreign minister in Milei’s administration, asserted that Argentina would not be joining the BRICS bloc and indicated a halt to interactions with the governments of China and Brazil, according to Russia’s RIA Novosti.
Mao Ning responded to inquiries about Mondino’s remarks by emphasizing the economic synergies and cooperation potential between China and Argentina. He expressed China’s intention to foster stable and long-term bilateral relations, despite the political changes in Argentina.
Earlier, Mondino clarified that while Argentina would continue trade with Brazil, the Milei administration aimed to terminate non-transparent state-to-state deals with China. This move aims to address what she termed “multiple secret negotiations” that have occurred in the past two decades.
The potential loss to Argentina
Chinese state media have downplayed Milei’s comments, focusing on the potential loss to Argentina should it decide to exclude China from its market. The media’s response reflects a broader narrative that suggests Argentina may face economic repercussions if it pivots away from its current relationship with China.
The unfolding diplomatic drama signals potential shifts in South American politics, which could have wider implications for international trade and geopolitical alignments in the region.
A significant policy shift could introduce economic uncertainty, both for Argentina’s market and for Chinese businesses operating there. The prospect of renegotiating or canceling trade deals and projects may lead to short-term economic disruptions.
Milei’s foreign policy decisions will likely have domestic repercussions. Depending on how his policies impact Argentina’s economy and international standing, there could be varying levels of public support or opposition.
Source: Reuters and MSNBC News
