The world’s reactions are different The choice of libertarian outsider Javier Milei as the next president of Argentina.

The Latin American country capitalized on the eccentric economist’s radical reform program after decades of economic stagnation, handing Milei a stunning victory on Sunday.

His election heralds a dramatic shakeup of the country’s economy and institutions, amid public anger over high inflation and record-breaking poverty rates under the Peronist center-left coalition.

“I am a man of democracy and I value nothing more than the verdict of the people. I trust that tomorrow we can work with Javier Milei to ensure an orderly transition,” said outgoing President Alberto Fernandez.

“I congratulate Javier Milei for courageously representing the will for progress and prosperity that lives in the hearts of Argentines. He knew how to listen to the voice of young people and to the fatigue of millions of neglected and impoverished people,” said former President Mauricio Macri.

Reactions from around the world showed that many countries are concerned about where Milei could lead the Latin American nation.

Voice of the people

Washington’s response came via National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who congratulated the president-elect and “the people of Argentina for holding free and fair elections.”

“We look forward to expanding our strong bilateral relationship based on our shared commitment to human rights, democratic values ​​and transparency,” he added.

“Democracy is the voice of the people and it must always be respected… I wish the new government good luck and success,” said Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.”

However, not everyone in the neighborhood was so forgiving.

“The extreme right has won in Argentina. It is their society’s decision. Sad for Latin America, and we will see… Relations between Colombia and Argentina, the bonds between their communities are maintained in mutual respect. “I congratulate Milei,” said Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

“As President of Chile, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our sister nations remain united and work together for the good of all,” said Chilean President Gabriel Boric.

Multipolar world

“Argentina is a close partner of the European Union. I would like to thank Alberto Fernandez for the excellent cooperation over the last few years. I look forward to continuing this cooperation for the benefit of our peoples,” wrote European Council President Charles Michel on X.

Congratulations to the new president of Argentina @JMilei for his victory. The people of #Argentina have spoken in free and democratic elections.

Argentina is a close partner of the European Union. thank you @alferdez for the excellent cooperation over the last few years.

I am looking…

— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) November 20, 2023

Russia also reacted with caution. Milei had previously spoken of reassessing relations with Moscow and supporting Ukraine.

“We hope that the course will be further developed towards a commitment to multipolarity, independent foreign policy and a resolute defense of national interests. “We are confident that this will be facilitated by Argentina’s accession to the BRICS countries, which will open up new horizons and opportunities for the country,” Russian Ambassador to Argentina Dimitri Feokitistov said, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the Kremlin noted Milei’s comments about Russia but wanted to maintain close ties with Buenos Aires.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was much more forthcoming.

“Congratulations to Javier Milei on his convincing victory in the Argentine presidential election,” Zelenskyy wrote on “to restore the foundation of international law.”

Congratulations to @JMilei about his convincing victory in the presidential elections in Argentina. I appreciate his clear stance in support of Ukraine. I look forward to working together to strengthen our 🇺🇦🇦🇷 cooperation and restore international order based on international law.

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Volodymyr Zelensky (@ZelenskyyUa) November 20, 2023

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said Beijing hopes to “continue our friendship, advance our respective development and revitalization through win-win cooperation.”

China is a major creditor of the Argentine economy.

Kristalina Georgieva, head of the International Monetary Fund, with which Buneo Ares has a $44 billion lending program, wrote: “Congratulations to President-elect Javier Milei. We look forward to working closely with him and his government in the coming period to develop and implement a strong plan to ensure macroeconomic stability and strengthen inclusive growth for all Argentines.”

Congratulations to President-elect Javier Milei @JMilei. We look forward to working closely with him and his government in the coming period to develop and implement a strong plan to ensure macroeconomic stability and strengthen inclusive growth for all Argentines.

— Kristalina Georgieva (@KGeorgieva) November 20, 2023

Former US President Donald Trump, to whom Milei is often compared, also sent congratulations.

“Congratulations to Javier Milei on a great race for the presidency of Argentina. The whole world was watching! I am very proud of you. You will transform your country and truly make Argentina great again!”

Argentina’s former President Jair Bolsanaro also reacted happily.

“Congratulations to the Argentine people on Javier Milei’s victory. Hope will shine again in South America. May these fair winds reach the United States and Brazil so that honesty, progress and freedom return to all of us,” he said.