Senators approve president’s bills after violent protests in Argentina

Police launch gas during clashes with anti-government protesters outside Congress, where politicians debate a reform bill promoted by Argentine President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires (Gustavo Garello/AP)

Argentina’s Senate has narrowly approved key state overhaul and tax bills proposed by President Javier Milei, delivering an initial legislative victory to the libertarian leader in his efforts to enact his promises of radical change.

Senators voted 37 to 36 late on Wednesday to give their overall approval to the overhaul bill after 11 hours of heated debate while protesters — urging politicians to reject Mr Milei’s harsh austerity plan — clashed with police outside Congress.