French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday described Argentina as a "friend" with which France can "build the economy of the future," after a telephone conversation with his counterpart Javier Milei.
Macron and Milei “have exchanged views on the economic situation in Argentina and the challenges to be faced. The Argentine people can always count on France's support,” said the French leader.
“Much more than an ally in key sectors, such as critical metals, Argentina is a friend with whom we want to build the economy of the future,” said the centrist leader in a post on the X social network.
Milei responded: "Thank you, President Emmanuel Macron. We deeply value your support and France's commitment to the Argentine people. We will continue to work together, as true friends, to face the challenges and build shared opportunities in key sectors for the future.”
The talks between the two G20 leaders comes as Argentina’s looks to build international support for a new financing agreement with the International Monetary Fund.
Last week, Congress granted approval for a Milei decree authorising a new programme with the multilateral lender, which Buenos Aires wants to include fresh financing.
IMF officials will reportedly meet soon to discuss a new deal, which would restructure payments due from Argentina’s existing US$44.5-billion programme.
Macron visited Buenos Aires last year, his second visit to see Milei. The duo met at the Casa Rosada on November 17, 2023, for talks and shared a photograph together on the presidential balcony overlooking the Plaza de Mayo.
– TIMES/NA/AFP
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