Argentina's Tango with Brics: A Twist in the Tale

A surprising turn of events, Argentina has decided to waltz away from joining the coveted BRICS alliance, a decision revealed by Diana Mondino, the principal foreign affairs adviser to the newly elected anarcho-capitalist president, Javier Milei. This abrupt shift in diplomatic stance comes hot on the heels of Milei's triumph in Argentina's presidential election, a victory that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape.

Mondino, in an interview with the Russian news agency Sputnik News, expressed the administration's puzzlement at the prospect of joining BRICS—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. "We do not understand the interest," she remarked candidly, adding that the administration fails to grasp what advantages Argentina stands to gain at this particular juncture. However, she left the door slightly ajar for reconsideration, stating, "If later it turns out that there is an advantage, of course, we will analyze it."

Argentina's potential BRICS membership had received support from the group's founding members during the last summit in August, making it the sole candidacy in the Americas. Yet, Milei, true to his campaign promises, has opted to snub the offer, intending to make the decision official when the membership is set to commence in January 2024.

The presidential race, a fierce showdown between Milei and the incumbent finance minister, Sergio Massa, culminated in preliminary tallies showing Milei securing 56 percent of the vote, while Massa trailed with 44 percent. Despite official ratification pending, Milei's victory signals a significant shift in Argentina's political landscape.

Milei, known for his right-wing libertarian views, had previously declared his unwillingness to engage in business with "communist countries" and advocated for severing ties with China, accusing them of financing propaganda in favor of his opponent. However, his advisers, including Mondino, have been swift to soften Milei's rhetoric, especially as they court more moderate voters.

At an event organized by a Washington-based think tank earlier this month, Mondino assured that ties between Buenos Aires and Beijing would remain intact under Milei's leadership. Yet, she hinted at a thorough examination of 'secret agreements' signed between the previous government and Beijing, indicating a potential review of existing financial arrangements.

As Argentina takes this unexpected step away from the BRICS alliance, the international community watches with keen interest. The delicate dance between ideologies, geopolitical considerations, and economic interests will undoubtedly shape Argentina's future relationships on the global stage. Only time will tell whether this tango with BRICS is a fleeting moment or a lasting pivot in Argentina's diplomatic endeavors.