Javier Millay’s victory prompted cautious congratulations from around the world.
The world has had mixed reactions to the election of liberal outsider Javier Millay as Argentina’s next president.
After decades of economic stagnation, the Latin American country handed Mr. Milley a resounding victory Sunday, betting on the eccentric economist’s radical reform plans.
His election would bring about dramatic changes to the country’s economy and institutions, amid public anger over high inflation and record poverty rates under the centre-left Peronist coalition.
“I am a believer in democracy and value nothing more than the verdict of the people. I believe that tomorrow we can begin working with Javier Millei to ensure an orderly transition of power.” President Alberto Fernández said.
“We congratulate Javier Millay for bravely representing the will to progress and prosper that lives in the hearts of Argentines. How he listens to the voices of young people and the fatigue of millions of people who are ignored and poor “I knew that,” said former President Mauricio Macri.
Reactions from around the world show that many countries are nervous about where Milley will lead the Latin American nation.
people’s voices
The U.S. government’s response was conveyed through national security adviser Jake Sullivan, who congratulated the president-elect and “the Argentine people for holding a free and fair election.”
He added: “We look forward to building a strong bilateral relationship based on our shared commitment to human rights, democratic values and transparency.”
“Democracy is the voice of the people and must always be respected… I wish the new government good luck and success,” said Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.
But not all neighbors were so conciliatory.
“In Argentina, the far right has won. It is the decision of that society. It is sad for Latin America, but we will see… The relations between Colombia and Argentina, the bonds between the communities, are maintained on mutual respect. We congratulate Millay,” said Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric said: “As President of Chile, I will continue to work tirelessly to maintain the unity of our sister countries and continue to work together for the well-being of all our people.”
multipolar world
“Argentina is a close partner of the European Union. I would like to thank Alberto Fernández for the excellent cooperation over recent years. I look forward to continuing this cooperation for the benefit of our people.”Europe Chairman of the Board Charles Michel wrote about X.
Congratulations to the new president of Argentina @JMiley For his victory. people #Argentina We have spoken in free and democratic elections.
Argentina is a close partner of the European Union.appreciate @Alferdes Thank you for your wonderful cooperation over the past few years.
If you look…
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) November 20, 2023
Russia also reacted cautiously. Milley has previously spoken about revising relations with Moscow and supporting Ukraine.
“We want to see further development of our commitment to multipolarity, an independent foreign policy, and a solid defense of national interests.” According to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, Argentina’s membership in the BRICS will facilitate this. We are confident that new horizons and opportunities will open up,” said Dmitry Feokhitistov, Russian Ambassador to Argentina.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the Kremlin takes note of Milley’s comments on Russia but wants to maintain strong ties with Buenos Aires.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy was more aggressive.
“I congratulate Javier Millei on his convincing victory in the Argentine presidential elections,” Zelensky wrote to X, adding, “I appreciate his clear stance in support of Ukraine.” We look forward to strengthening our cooperation and working together to restore international order based on international law. ”
Congratulations @JMiley About his convincing victory in the Argentine presidential election. I highly value his clear stance in support of Ukraine. I look forward to 🇺🇦🇦🇷 strengthening cooperation and working together to restore international order based on international law.
— Volodymyr Zelensky / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 20, 2023
A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Chinese government hopes to “continue the friendly relations and promote the development and revitalization of the two countries through win-win cooperation.”
China is a major creditor to Argentina’s struggling economy.
Kristalina Georgieva, head of the International Monetary Fund, with which Buneo Ares has a $44 billion loan program, wrote: “Congratulations to President-elect Javier Millay. We look forward to working with him to develop and implement a strong plan to safeguard macroeconomic stability and strengthen inclusive growth for all Argentines.” I look forward to working closely with his administration.”
🇦🇷Congratulations to President-elect Javier Millay @JMiley. We will work closely with him and his administration in the coming period to develop and implement a strong plan to protect macroeconomic stability and strengthen inclusive growth for all Argentines. I’m looking forward to that.
— Kristalina Georgieva (@KGeorgieva) November 20, 2023
Former US President Donald Trump, who is often compared to Milay, also sent words of congratulations.
“Congratulations to Mr. Javier Millei on his amazing race in the Argentine presidential election. The whole world was watching! I am so proud of you. You have turned your country around and truly made Argentina great again. You will!”
Former Argentine President Jair Bolsanaro also responded happily.
“To the people of Argentina, congratulations to Javier Millei on his victory. Hope shines once again in South America. May this good wind reach the United States and Brazil and restore integrity, progress and freedom to all of us. ” he said.
