Argentine Leader and Elon Musk Pledge to Enhance Free Markets in Joint Agreement Following Texas Encounter
Argentine President Javier Milei had a meeting with tech billionaire Elon Musk in Texas where they discussed the importance of ‘eliminating bureaucratic obstacles.’ The meeting took place at Mr. Musk’s Tesla factory in Austin, Texas, where they agreed on the necessity of free markets and the promotion of freedom, as stated by Argentine presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni.
They also conversed about the significance of removing obstacles that deter investors and advancing technology for the betterment of humanity, Mr. Adorni added.
Furthermore, they discussed the role of entrepreneurs in society, with Mr. Milei offering his support to Mr. Musk in his legal battle in Brazil related to a Brazilian Supreme Court investigation. Mr. Musk also agreed to organize a significant event in Argentina soon to advocate for the ideals of freedom.
Mr. Milei’s visit to the United States, his third in four months since assuming office, aims to realign Argentine foreign policy with that of Washington. During his meeting with Mr. Musk, they also talked about lithium, an essential component of electric car batteries, and potential investment opportunities in Argentina in this sector.
Mr. Milei, who took office in December 2023, is determined to address the crisis in Argentina and reverse the high inflation rate and widespread poverty through market-oriented reforms. The Biden administration has shown interest in exploring investment opportunities in Argentine lithium, with hopes of reducing China’s dominance in the battery supply chain.
The United States, being the largest investor in Argentina, holds significant influence over the IMF, which Argentina owes a substantial amount of money. The IMF has approved Mr. Milei’s economic strategies and agreed to disburse a portion of the bailout package that Argentina had secured six years ago.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
