Javier Milei’s Upcoming Diplomatic Mission to Israel: Strengthening Security Ties

President Javier Milei will visit Israel for the second time, aiming to sign a memorandum on security collaboration. He will be accompanied by key officials, including his sister and the Foreign Minister. The trip highlights the strengthening ties between Argentina and Israel, focusing on counter-terrorism efforts and cooperation in various sectors, amidst ongoing challenges in diplomatic relations.

President Javier Milei is scheduled to make his second trip to Israel as the Argentine leader at the end of this month, departing from Buenos Aires on March 23. Rabbi Axel Wahnish, Argentina’s Ambassador to Israel, confirmed the itinerary, which aims to establish a memorandum for collaboration on security and defense initiatives. This visit follows Milei’s initial trip in February, during which he met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and was emotionally moved by a visit to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem.

Accompanying President Milei will be his sister, Presidential Chief-of-Staff Karina Milei, and Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein. The Argentine President, a strong advocate for Israel, might hold discussions with Netanyahu and is also expected to present a speech to the Knesset, Israel’s legislative body. This trip underscores the strengthening ties between Argentina and Israel under Milei’s administration since he assumed office in December 2023.

Wahnish expressed enthusiasm for expanding bilateral cooperation in innovation, technology, defense, and security, especially in the fight against terrorism. In his recent state of the nation address, Milei stressed his commitment to counter-terrorism efforts and mentioned the development of a new national security law to provide essential tools for Argentina’s intelligence services and armed forces to combat threats.

The President recently declared two days of mourning for the tragic deaths of Israeli-Argentine children Ariel and Kfir Bibas, whose remains were repatriated after being held hostage by Hamas militants. In response to this announcement, Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Milei for his resolute integrity and leadership, suggesting that it should inspire leaders globally.

Milei has indicated plans to move Argentina’s embassy to Jerusalem, following a precedent set by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Although this move remains pending, Ambassador Wahnish has formally established his residence in Jerusalem, signaling Argentina’s commitment to deepening diplomatic relations with Israel.

President Javier Milei’s upcoming visit to Israel reaffirms Argentina’s commitment to enhancing security and defense cooperation between the two nations. The establishment of a memorandum and discussions with key Israeli leaders showcase Milei’s active role in promoting bilateral ties. His strong stance against terrorism further highlights the importance of this diplomatic engagement, despite the challenges that remain, such as relocating the embassy to Jerusalem and addressing the recent tragedy of the Bibas children.

Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar