​​​​​ISTANBUL

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed a willingness to collaborate with Argentine President Javier Milei to enhance the China-Argentina Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, according to a statement by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying.

Xi emphasized the importance of fostering stable and lasting bilateral ties to benefit the development of both nations.

In response, Milei praised the friendly relations between the two countries and reiterated his commitment to deepening cooperation.

The exchange comes amid Argentina’s announcement that it would not join the BRICS bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

The group represents more than 40% of the global population and accounts for over 30% of global GDP.

China attaches 'great importance' to relations with Bolivia

In another meeting, Xi engaged with Bolivian President Luis Arce.

Reaffirming the strength of the China-Bolivia strategic partnership, Xi said he attaches "great importance" to China-Bolivia relations and is ready to work with Arce.

Xi underscored the cooperation achievements of the massive global Belt and Road infrastructure project between the two nations and praised their mutual support on critical issues.