Donald Trump hosts Argentina's President Milei in first post-election diplomatic meeting

US President-elect Donald Trump held a meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei at his Mar-a-Lago club on Thursday, marking the first international leader to visit him following his recent electoral victory. An anonymous source confirmed the successful meeting, noting that Milei also engaged with investors during his visit.

Later, Milei, who identifies as an "anarcho-capitalist" and has received frequent praise from Trump, delivered a speech at the America First Policy Institute gala at Mar-a-Lago. He began briefly in English before continuing in Spanish with an interpreter. His address included criticism of leftist ideologies and praise for X owner Elon Musk's contribution to "save humanity" through his social media platform.

In his speech, Milei criticised the political establishment, arguing against what he described as unfair taxation systems that enforced "the redistribution of wealth at gunpoint."

The Argentine leader praised Trump's electoral success, saying, "Today the winds of freedom are blowing much stronger" and suggesting that "proof positive that the forces of heaven are on our side."

Trump addressed the gala attendees, commending Milei "for the job you've done for Argentina" and expressing his pleasure at hosting Argentina's president at his establishment.

"The job you've done is incredible. Make Argentina Great Again, you know, MAGA. He's a MAGA person," Trump declared to applause. "And you know, he's doing that."

Following Milei's November 2023 election victory, Trump posted online, "You will turn your country around and truly Make Argentina Great Again!"

Their initial encounter occurred in February at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) near Washington. Milei, who openly admires Trump, enthusiastically greeted him by shouting "president!" before embracing him and posing for photographs.

Milei has gained recognition for his distinctive personality and initially gained prominence by vocally criticising Argentina's "political caste" on television. The right-wing populist's campaign featured a chainsaw, symbolising his intended reduction in government expenditure and departments.