A Key Day for Investments and Bilateral Relations

Date: July 31, 2026

President Javier Milei had a packed agenda on Friday, starting with the reception of his counterpart from the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, at the Casa Rosada (the Argentine presidential palace). This marks the first bilateral visit by a South Korean leader to Argentina in 22 years, according to the Foreign Ministry.

RIGI Project: Pampa Energía and the New Urea Plant

In the afternoon, Milei led the presentation of a project under the RIGI (Régimen de Incentivo para Grandes Inversiones) – a special incentive regime for large investments in Argentina – by the company Pampa Energía. The project involves the construction of a new urea plant. The event took place in the Hall of Argentine Science at the Casa Rosada, alongside the company's president, Marcelo Mindlin, and national officials.

Milei's Statements on Telefe

In an exclusive interview with Mariana Brey for the program 'A la Barbarossa' on Telefe (a major Argentine TV network), the president addressed various national and international topics:

• BCRA Reform and Economy: He defended the reform of the BCRA (Banco Central de la República Argentina) – the central bank – sent to Congress, emphasizing that the 'chainsaw never stops' and that the Argentine economy has been growing for 26 months, quintupling its pace.
• U.S. Aid: He denied that the United States 'saved' Argentina, noting that its contribution was 2.5 billion dollars, less than 5% of the 70 billion dollars that made up the total 'speculative attack' the country faced.
• Falkland Islands Flag at the World Cup: He distanced himself from the gesture of the Argentine national team players after defeating England, stating that 'it's not good to mix oil and water.' He highlighted that the greatest sovereign advances are achieved through diplomacy, not 'bravado.' (The Falkland Islands, known as Malvinas in Spanish, are a disputed territory between Argentina and the UK.)
• Manuel Adorni: He again supported the former Chief of Cabinet, asserting that 'he is honest' and respecting the principle of innocence in the judicial investigation for alleged illicit enrichment, while criticizing the 'excesses' of some journalists.
• Personal Life: Regarding his relationship with Fátima Flórez, he admitted that his life is 'so demanding' that he cannot have a reasonable relationship, without ruling out marriage in the future.

Internal Ruling Party Tensions and Look Toward 2027

Chief of Cabinet Diego Santilli harshly criticized Vice President Victoria Villarruel for her constant attacks on the president, suggesting she resign if she does not agree with government policies. 'I think Villarruel's actions are outrageous, a nonsense, a lack of common sense,' Santilli said on Radio Mitre.

Meanwhile, according to a poll by RDT Consultores (led by Martha Reale) released on July 31, 2026, Milei would lead the voting intention for the 2027 elections against Buenos Aires province Governor Axel Kicillof, with a margin of 15.7 points in a hypothetical first round and 3.5 points in a potential runoff.

Source: Clarín