On January 22, 2026, Argentine President Milei clearly stated during an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, "Argentina does not have to choose between the United States and China," and he defined China as a "great trading partner." He explained, "The weight of China in the global economy determines that Argentina must trade with China. My responsibility is to act in the best interest of the people." He plans to visit China in 2026 to deepen economic and trade cooperation.
Milei referred to China as a "great trading partner" at the Davos Forum and said Argentina does not have to "choose between the US and China." This reflects his dual strategy of being ideologically pro-US but economically pragmatic.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Milei defined China as an "important trading partner" and said that due to China's weight in the global economy, Argentina has "no choice" but to trade with China. He explained that his responsibility is to "act in the best interest of the Argentine people."
Another statement: In a formal speech, he praised Trump and the United States as "the beacon that reignites the entire Western world," and strongly criticized socialism. He also participated in the signing ceremony of the Gaza "Peace Committee" initiated by Trump. But he couldn't come up with 1 billion dollars.
Since taking office, Milei's remarks about China have significantly slowed down, but he has not fully embraced or rejected it. He has implemented economic liberalization reforms, which objectively created conditions for Chinese goods (such as tariff-free electric vehicles) to enter Argentina.
Milei's pragmatic statements are based on a deep and mutually beneficial Sino-Argentine trade relationship:
China is Argentina's second-largest trading partner and its largest export market for agricultural products.
China provides hundreds of billions of dollars in financial support to Argentina through currency swap agreements, which is crucial for Argentina's economic stability.
Recently, the first shipment of wheat from Argentina set off for China, Chinese new energy vehicles were introduced in Argentina, and the first direct flight between China and Argentina was launched. In 2025, Argentina's exports to China saw a significant increase. For Argentina, China is one of its most important trading partners.
China defines the Sino-Argentine relationship as "a comprehensive strategic partner characterized by mutual respect, equality, openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation."
In summary, Milei's latest statement is a correction of ideology by pragmatism, aimed at ensuring Argentina's economic interests. The Sino-Argentine relationship is built on solid common interests and has considerable resilience. Future development will depend on whether the Argentine government can transform open rhetoric into stable cooperative policies.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1855192427000908/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.