Putting aside diplomatic tensions, Spain and Argentina are on good terms again

Spain-Argentina pledge to strengthen ties after tensions. (Source: Padel Magazine)

According to Anadolu news agency, the Spanish government has appointed Mr. Joaquín María de Arístegui Laborde as Ambassador to Argentina.

In a joint statement issued on October 29, the Spanish and Argentine Foreign Ministries pledged to strengthen relations between the two countries “to reach the maximum level of political and institutional trust and mutual respect.”

The text reads: “We are fraternal peoples, united by deep social and humanitarian ties. Our common language and culture as well as our important economic, trade and investment exchanges must always serve as a guiding principle in relations between the two countries.”

Both Spain and Argentina have affirmed that the relationship between the two governments must be consistent with the level of solidarity between the people and societies of the two sides.

“As priority partners, both bilaterally and within the European Union (EU) and the South American Common Market (Mercosur), we need to work together to increase trade and reach a rapid and effective agreement on a Mercosur-EU free trade agreement,” the joint statement said.

In May 2024, during an event in Madrid organized by the far-right Vox party, Argentine President Javier Milei made comments that Spain considered offensive to the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and then refused to apologize.

Madrid announced the withdrawal of its ambassador to “defend the dignity and sovereignty of Spanish institutions.” However, during the five-month diplomatic standoff between the two countries, Argentina did not withdraw its ambassador.