It is 16 years since an Argentine president has visited Peru on state business. Today President Cristina Kirchner arrived in the country for a two day visit which will include meeting with the Peruvian president, Alan García. Relations between the two countries became difficult in 1995 when Argentina sold arms to Ecuador under the government of Carlos Menem. At the time, Peru was facing a war with Ecuador. The Argentine foreign minister, Jorge Triana, said that the visit, “will be significant for both countries”.
Today President Kirchner and President García will sign an agreement of strategic cooperation and they will also oversee the setting up of a business council between the two countries, which seeks to deepen trade links. Accompanying President Kirchner on the visit are governors of northern Argentine provinces, government ministers and 100 Argentine businessmen from various sectors.
The business delegation plans to meet with their Peruvian counterparts to discuss improving greater co-operation and investment between the two counties. The leading role in the delegation will be taken by Franco Macri, the entrepreneur and father of the current Buenos Aires city mayor. Trade between the countries last year was worth US$856 million.
The Argentine ambassador in Peru, Dario Alessandro, said, “The Business Council aims not only to strengthen trade, but also to help firms in both countries, with the support of state policies, to have access to third markets.” He stressed the importance of President Kirchner’s visit and that it will help strengthen the bilateral relationship and increase trade and investment.
During her visit President Kirchner will place a wreath on the Monument to the Pioneers which celebrates the heroes of independence and also one at the monument to José de San Martín.
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