Argentina highlights expanded economic, commercial ties with China

BUENOS AIRES - Argentina is exploring expanded economic, commercial ties with China, the Argentinean Foreign Ministry said Wednesday.

Argentinean and Chinese authorities concluded on July 11-12 a complete revision of the two countries' trade and investment agreements during the 20th meeting of the two countries' Joint Economic and Commercial Commission (COMIXTA) in Beijing.

The two sides "made proposals to build up bilateral exchanges" and "discussed improving access conditions for Argentinean foodstuffs and the incorporation of high value-added products to China," the foreign ministry in a statement.

The two countries concluded sanitary and phytosanitary negotiations to allow access for Argentinean grapes to China, advanced negotiations for new beef and poultry requirements and began talks to export Argentinean cranberries to China.

The Chinese government will soon send an inspection mission to Argentina to set up protocols for beef and poultry exports.

The two sides are also in the process of discussing sanitary regulations for biotechnology, dairy, seeds, and veterinary drugs.

In the statement, Argentinean Secretary of International Economic Relations Maria Cristina Boldorini said "our main interest is to open markets and improve the access conditions for our products. We are optimistic about these successes."

China and Argentina enjoy a comprehensive strategic partnership, with China being Argentina's second-largest trading partner after Brazil.