Statements by Foreign Minister Malcorra on 2 April and on Nuclear Security Summit

Speaking from Washington today, Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra stated: “On this 2 April, I would like to recall all those who lost their lives in the war we fought many years ago. Unfortunately, I am not in Argentina to join the President in the tribute to them at this special time. I do take this opportunity to say that all that has been achieved with respect to our sovereignty over the continental shelf is a way of paying homage”.

In an interview with Radio Mitre, Malcorra delivered a summary of Argentina’s participation in the Nuclear Security Summit, with President Macri as the head of the delegation: “Argentina has always pursued a State policy in nuclear matters. We have reached a thirty-year agreement with Brazil that would have previously been unthinkable and which has made it possible for Latin America to be a region free from the challenge of nuclear weapons. The President has once again affirmed our strong commitment. Argentina is not only a very important player, but also an exporter. The meeting stressed that there is a possibility that extremists may obtain nuclear waste or elements, and that is a big risk. The core of the discussion was security.”

“The President met with Xi Jinping, with the Prime Minister of Canada and with the Prime Minister of New Zealand. We have held a series of important meetings, including talks with Prime Minister Cameron, at his own request”, the Foreign Minister added.

Malcorra explained that: “The meeting with Xi Jinping was important. Macri told the Chinese President about the decision to maintain a strategic relationship. He also told him that we are examining some of the agreements reached because it seemed to us that certain adjustments were required so that they would have the level of transparency and conformity to law that we intend. Xi Jinping agreed to the new administration taking some time to make sure that the agreements signed are in line with the priorities of our Government.”

“Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s great interest in all areas relating to infrastructure. There is a bidding process concerning renewable energies that will be opened in the upcoming weeks and China’s participation has been confirmed. Tourism was also a subject of much discussion, as we could have the opportunity to receive more of the flow of Chinese tourists. With China, many of our differences can be perfectly worked out and the fact that the Chinese government confirmed this shows that actions will follow shortly”, stated the head of Argentine diplomacy.