Barack Obama praises Argentine reforms

President Barack Obama yesterday praised Argentina’s new centre-right leader, Mauricio Macri, for the swift pace of reforms to create a stronger economy and said Washington was ready to work more closely with Argentina after years of tension.

Obama, on a two-day visit to Argentina that marks a rapprochement in relations, said the president was setting an example to neighbours in the region.

“I’m impressed because he has moved rapidly on so many of the reforms that he promised, to create more sustainable and inclusive economic growth, to reconnect Argentina with the global economy and the world community,” Obama told a joint news conference after the two leaders held talks.