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Milei, who is known for his populist agenda and drastic economic reforms, praised Trump’s political comeback, calling his reelection “the greatest political comeback in history”
Argentine President Javier Milei walks past US President-elect Donald Trump as they attend the America First Policy Institute Gala held at Mar-a-Lago. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images via AFP)
US President-elect Donald Trump hosted Argentina’s President Javier Milei at his Mar-a-Lago residence on Thursday, making it the first official meeting with a foreign leader since winning the 2024 presidential election.
Milei, who is known for his populist agenda and drastic economic reforms, praised Trump’s political comeback, calling his reelection “the greatest political comeback in history.”
The Argentine leader made the remark during a gala event organised by the America First Policy Institute, which was held at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida.
‘Greatest political comeback’
“This has been the greatest political comeback in history, defying the entire political establishment, even at the risk of his own life,” Milei said, introducing Trump on stage. “Thanks to this, today the world is a much better world. Today the winds of freedom are blowing, blowing much stronger.”
Milei, who has gained Trump’s respect for his hardline stance on government cuts and fiscal reforms, is believed to be the first foreign leader to meet with the Republican since his victory earlier this month. The two leaders share a similar populist outlook and have forged a mutual admiration, with Trump previously predicting that Milei would “turn your country around and truly make Argentina great again.”
Also present at the event was Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and Trump’s close ally. He also shared a post on X featuring a photo of himself with Milei, Trump, and others.
Musk, who has been tapped to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency under Trump’s new administration, posed for photos with Trump and Milei. The Argentine president recently sought Musk’s support for tech investments in Argentina, further solidifying the ties between the two leaders.
Milei first met Trump in February at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in the Washington area, where he expressed his admiration for the former US president. Upon spotting Trump, Milei rushed towards him shouting “President!” and gave him a close hug before the two posed for pictures.
Milei, who took office in December 2023, is known for his eccentric personality and bold political stance. He first gained national attention in Argentina with fiery television appearances, where he loudly criticized the country’s “political caste.” The right-wing populist campaigned with a chainsaw as his symbol, promising to slash public spending and dismantle government ministries.
(With inputs from agencies)