U.S., Argentina Agree To Strengthen Ties
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- In the first visit to Argentina by a U.S. president in almost two decades, President Barack Obama and Argentina's president talked about strengthening ties.
Newly elected President Mauricio Macri along with President Obama agreed to work together to tackle global challenges like climate change, refugees, peacekeeping, human rights and democracy.
The two leaders - who met Wednesday at La Casa Rosada in Buenos Aires - also discussed Macri's plan to implement economic reforms in the country which had a previously tense relationship with the U.S. and the international financial system.
Back in January, the United States ended its policy opposing most lending to Argentina by development banks. This had been in place since 2011.
On Wednesday, both governments announced steps to bolster trade and investment between both countries. U.S. companies announced multi-billion dollar investments to add to their $20 billion in annual United States-Argentina trade.
Click here to see pictures of President Obama's trip to Argentina.
In the coming months, six trade delegations will also help the U.S. and Argentine businesses find more opportunities, the White House said.
The two countries also signed a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement meant to open up dialogue on intellectual property, market access, and cooperation on agricultural matters.
Among other topics talked about, both leaders addressed those of worldwide concern - the Zika virus and climate change. Both sides said they would share information and advance their responses to preventing further spread of the virus along with educating the public and those at risk.
As for climate change, both Macri and Obama agreed on their commitment to sign and join the Paris Agreement.
And those were not the only items up for discussion during the president's visit to the Latin American country.
In the afternoon, President Obama will hold a town hall with young people to talk about the relationship between the U.S. and Latin America at the Usina del Arte.
In the evening, the President and First Lady will attend a state dinner hosted by Macri.
The president and First Lady are set to be in Buenos Aires until Thursday.
