The meeting lasted eighty minutes and included Milei, Werthein, Karina Milei (Secretary General of the Presidency), Simon Wahnish (ambassador designated for Israel), and the businessman Pato Fucks, a close friend of the president. "It was like love at first sight," summarized Gerardo Werthein, ambassador designated for the United States, who participated in the meeting between Milei and Musk.
The meeting concluded with Musk expressing his desire to assist Argentina with his businesses related to social networks, satellite communications, and electric vehicle production. Milei promised his support to resolve the crisis Musk faces in Brazil with Lula da Silva. Both Milei and Musk emphasized the importance of market freedom and the avoidance of state regulations. They shared the idea of progress versus state bureaucracy and highlighted the need to support technological development for the advancement of global society.
"The idea is to hold an event in Argentina on demography, technology, and economic growth, with the participation of Milei and Musk," Werthein told Infobae. Although a precise date has not been set, it is expected that the event will take place during this year. During the meeting, Musk explained the political pressure exerted by Lula da Silva on the X social network. Milei, familiar with the situation, offered his help. In other words, if Musk wishes, he could relocate X facilities from Brazil to Argentina.
Musk, owner of Tesla, a company specializing in electric vehicles powered by lithium batteries, showed interest in Argentina's lithium reserves, one of the largest in the world. Milei's intention is to add value to this mining potential by manufacturing batteries in the country. This ambitious plan requires close proximity between the battery factory and the automotive plant, implying significant investment to design a supply chain that connects lithium extraction, transportation, battery production, and vehicle assembly.
Milei proposed this lithium and electric vehicle-related development strategy, which Musk received favorably. Now, it is up to Ambassador Werthein to move forward with the executives appointed by Musk to advance an investment plan that could transform Argentina's business landscape.
Milei's whirlwind trip to Austin capped off his tour of the United States. The president deepened his relationship with Musk, who expressed his willingness to assist Argentina with its ventures in social networks, satellite communications, and electric vehicle manufacturing.
"For an exciting and inspiring future," Elon Musk posted on X after his meeting with Milei.