Johannesburg: Argentine President Javier Milei on Saturday expressed his belief that Latin America has lost its direction due to the influence of 21st-century socialism. Speaking at an event in Buenos Aires organized by a business group, Milei emphasized the necessity for a strong partnership with the United States to amend the region's course.

According to Anadolu Agency, Milei pointed to the need for Argentina to serve as a key ally for the US in the region, suggesting that he himself could fulfill this role. He stated, "A geopolitical anchor is critically important. Today, Argentina has the opportunity to become one of the main actors in the fundamental change taking place in the rules of the global game. The US, meanwhile, needs a solid ally in Latin America to help reorganize a continent that has strayed off course due to decades of the effects of 21st-century socialism."

Milei advocated for comprehensive reforms in Argentina's fiscal, currency, and tax systems to bolster the national economy. He asserted that if these reforms are executed effectively, the nation's GDP could double every seven years. "Argentina offers a unique investment opportunity as it moves toward becoming the world's freest country and prepares to become a global example," he remarked.

The recent developments between the US and Argentina include the signing of a framework agreement aimed at fostering bilateral trade and investment relations. On October 9, US Treasury Secretary Bessent announced a significant $20-billion swap framework with the Argentine Central Bank, following discussions with Argentine Economy Minister Luis Caputo, which also involved the direct purchase of Argentine pesos by the US.