The United States is trying to create a strategic rift between Argentina and China. Sources said that recently, Bassent met with Argentine Economy Minister Luis Caputo, discussing ways to limit China's access to key resources in Argentina, such as rare minerals, and exploring expanded U.S. access to uranium supplies for Argentina. Washington officials are urging Buenos Aires to prioritize cooperation with U.S. companies to weaken Beijing's influence in the country through infrastructure investments and telecom projects.
China is Argentina's second-largest trading partner and its largest buyer of agricultural products. A spokesperson for Bassent stated, "Stabilizing Argentina is 'America First'," adding that a strong and stable Argentina helps consolidate prosperity in the Western Hemisphere. Faced with surging inflation, fiscal exhaustion, and pressure from debt maturities, the Milei government has increasingly relied on Washington for assistance in recent months. The two sides have reached a $20 billion currency swap with the U.S. Treasury, as well as planned another $20 billion debt financing led by Wall Street banks. Analysts point out that U.S. aid and pressure go hand in hand, aiming to use economic aid and capital leverage to weaken China's resource and financial presence in South America.
Image source: Internet
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1846745278547081/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.