Argentina criticizes Brazil's decision to reduce diplomatic representation

Argentina's Foreign Ministry has voiced regret over Brazil's decision to reduce the level of its diplomatic representation in Buenos Aires, a move that includes the indefinite recall of Ambassador Julio Bitelli. The diplomatic downgrade comes in the wake of critical exchanges between Argentine President Javier Milei and his Brazilian counterpart, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

According to a statement released on social media, the Argentine Foreign Ministry was informed that Brazil's government would reduce bilateral diplomatic representation to the level of Chargé d'Affaires. Argentina's Ministry noted Brazil's unilateral decision and expressed regret that Brazil is choosing to isolate itself from the region due to "purely ideological issues."

The Argentine government emphasized its consistent policy of not turning political differences into diplomatic incidents, citing numerous past instances where cross-political support between leaders of both nations did not result in institutional measures. Argentina maintains that its foreign policy will continue to be guided solely by the defense of national interests, sovereignty, and the mandate conferred by the Argentine people, rather than being subject to the political needs of current leaders.