‘No other country is more closely aligned’ – Trump envoy hails US-Argentina ties
Christopher Landau, number two at the US State Department, meets Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno in Buenos Aires; Alongside Washington’s Western Hemisphere chief Juan Pablo Segura, duo announce funding to combat drug trafficking, human-trafficking and cyberattacks. Leer más
US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau hailed the close alignment between the United States and Argentina, emphasizing the strength of their relationship. This sentiment came during a joint press conference with Argentina's Foreign Minister, Pablo Quirno, following a meeting at the San Martín Palace. United States officials responsible for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Juan Pablo Segura, also attended the event.
Quirno placed a significant emphasis on security, highlighting the need to combat criminal organizations and drug-trafficking networks in collaboration with the US. Argentina reiterated its stance against terrorism, a message echoed by Quirno. In terms of financial support, the US government has allocated $13 million to aid in the fight against drug trafficking, with $7 million specifically designated for Argentina.
Additionally, Argentina's National Security Ministry, under the leadership of Alejandra Monteoliva, signed a $10 million agreement to enhance efforts to prosecute child-trafficking cases.
The security agenda was closely tied to economic development, as Quirno pointed out that security has an economic dimension. The visit aimed to continue the work previously undertaken with US Trade Representative Jamie Jamieson Greer, resulting in a reciprocal trade and investment agreement. The signing of a memorandum on critical minerals was also highlighted, with Quirno stating that cooperation with the US creates new opportunities for employment and investment.
The integration of Argentina into the US economy is of strategic importance, as Quirno stressed the need for secure routes to protect trade flows from interference. The visit was timely, as the White House had proposed disbanding the UN Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24), a forum where Argentina annually asserts its sovereignty claim over the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands. Quirno opted for the language of secure trade routes, aligning with Washington's priorities.
The US delegation also met with other Argentine officials, including Fernando Brun (international economic relations), Luis Caputo (economy minister), Juan Bautista Mahiques (justice minister), and Monteoliva. The visit continued beyond the Foreign Ministry, with plans for the delegation to meet with Argentine Secretary for International Economic Relations, Fernando Brun, and Economy Minister Luis Caputo.
US Ambassador Peter Lamelas, accompanying the officials, announced the potential mobilization of up to $20 billion in investment and financing by the end of 2027, primarily in energy and infrastructure. The visit aimed to promote growth and security cooperation, with a focus on the Andes-Atlantic Corridor and the partnership with state oil company YPF.
The US strategy in the region is influenced by the competition with China, which is reflected in every move made towards Buenos Aires. The visit served as a prelude to Vice-President JD Vance's expected arrival in November, although no official date has been confirmed.
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
