Argentina's Foreign Minister says US trade deals include China

Argentina's Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno recently emphasized that a newly established agreement on critical minerals with the United States does not preclude investment from China in Argentina's mining sector. This statement reflects Argentina's acknowledgment of China's essential role as a major global market, which is crucial for fostering sustainable growth.

Quirno articulated that the agreement leaves the door open for Chinese participation, ensuring that ongoing and future investments in Argentina by Chinese entities remain viable. This point underscores the importance of China's existing investments in the country's mineral resources.

The trade agreement was forged during a meeting in Washington, where the United States proposed the formation of a trading bloc focused on critical minerals. This bloc aims to create a structured approach, including price floors for these vital commodities, marking a strategic move amid rising global competition.

A Chinese expert, Zhou Mi, noted that Quirno's comments reflect a broader strategy as the United States seeks to collectively combat China's historical dominance in the critical minerals domain. This rivalry has significant implications for global supply chains, particularly in sectors where essential minerals are pivotal.

Zhou further remarked that the lack of legal restrictions against Chinese involvement in Argentina's minerals sector indicates ongoing opportunities for collaboration. The framework of the agreement does not limit industrial cooperation but rather promotes a diverse and dynamic engagement.

Highlighting the current global climate of unilateralism, Zhou stressed the necessity for open and inclusive industrial collaboration. He asserted that politicizing these partnerships could jeopardize healthy industry growth and destabilize the global supply chain.

In parallel conversations, Argentine President Javier Milei, during the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, reiterated that Argentina does not need to choose between the United States and China. He emphasized the fundamental need for an open economy that actively engages all significant global players.

Milei noted, in remarks made at a Bloomberg event, that engaging with China's economy is essential to meet the needs of the Argentine populace, reflecting a commitment to diversifying trade relations with Europe, the US, and China alike.

China's established expertise in managing the global minerals supply chain was underscored by Zhou, particularly in the context of vital minerals such as lithium and copper. This expertise positions China as a key player in bolstering co-development and local industrial capabilities.

This past week, the US State Department hosted its inaugural Critical Minerals Ministerial event, garnering participation from numerous countries. Following this, Washington revealed bilateral agreements on critical minerals with multiple nations, further consolidating its strategy within this vital sector.

In response to the US's initiative to create an exclusive trading bloc and the idea of establishing pricing floors, a representative from China's Foreign Ministry expressed opposition to any actions that would disrupt international economic relations, advocating instead for a transparent and inclusive trade framework that benefits all nations.