Argentina’s President Javier Milei is expected to meet former U.S. President Donald Trump during his visit to the United States on Wednesday, as Buenos Aires pursues a $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to bolster its central bank reserves.
According to Argentine Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein, the two leaders will be honored for their “conservative values” at an event held at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Speaking to local news channel LN+ on Tuesday, Werthein said while no formal meeting is scheduled, a discussion between Milei and Trump is highly likely.
“The IMF issue is undoubtedly a key part of Argentina’s bilateral agenda with the United States,” Werthein noted.
Milei, a self-proclaimed ally of Trump, has implemented strict austerity measures since assuming office in December 2023. While his policies have helped slow inflation, they have also dampened consumer spending.
The potential $20 billion IMF loan, which would add to Argentina’s existing $44 billion debt with the institution, has triggered market concerns, causing a run on the peso amid fears of devaluation—something Milei has denied will happen.
Werthein did not disclose the exact date of the award ceremony but confirmed Milei’s trip to the U.S. on Wednesday.