Argentina and Kuwait Deepen Bilateral Cooperation, Ambassador Velloso Highlights Key Sectors

Strengthening Decades of Partnership

Ambassador Ramiro Hernán Velloso, Argentina's newly appointed envoy to Kuwait, has emphasized the robust and enduring relationship between the two nations, describing it as 'friendly, respectful, and grounded in decades of mutual support'. His remarks, made during a recent interview with The Times Kuwait, highlighted a shared history that includes Argentina's support during the Gulf War (1990–1991) and Kuwait's significant financial contributions through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED). Since 1994, KFAED has been a crucial partner for Argentina in Latin America and the Caribbean, funding numerous infrastructure projects such as aqueducts, water treatment plants, and road networks across various provinces.

Focus on Food Security and Agricultural Development

A primary area for enhanced cooperation identified by Ambassador Velloso is food security. Argentina, a major global food producer, possesses advanced technological capabilities in areas like biotechnology. These strengths could significantly contribute to Kuwait's agricultural development goals. The potential for collaboration aligns with broader international efforts, as evidenced by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Kuwait Fund signing a Memorandum of Understanding in February 2025 to bolster global food security initiatives.

Expanding Energy Collaboration

The energy sector presents another substantial opportunity for bilateral engagement. While Kuwait is a world leader in energy production, Argentina is undergoing a significant transformation in its energy landscape. This includes the development of Vaca Muerta, one of the world's largest unconventional oil and gas reservoirs in Argentine Patagonia, alongside a growing focus on expanding renewable energy projects. Ambassador Velloso noted that these complementary strengths create fertile ground for new partnerships and investments.

Joint Efforts in Humanitarian Assistance

Both Argentina and Kuwait share strong humanitarian credentials, making humanitarian assistance a vital area for joint efforts. Argentina brings decades of experience, notably through its White Helmets program, which has executed over 400 international humanitarian projects and missions in 81 countries across five continents. Kuwait is internationally recognized as a global humanitarian center. Ambassador Velloso pointed to opportunities for collaboration through initiatives like the White Helmets Argentina and through triangular cooperation models, leveraging both countries' expertise to address global humanitarian challenges.

Future Outlook for Investment and Growth

Beyond these core areas, Ambassador Velloso also highlighted other sectors ripe for foreign investment in Argentina, including mining (lithium, copper, gold, silver), knowledge-based services, and agribusiness. To attract such investments, Argentina introduced the Incentive Regime for Large Investments (RIGI) in mid-2024, offering tax, customs, and foreign exchange incentives for projects exceeding US$200 million. The Ambassador expressed his readiness to engage with potential Kuwaiti investors to explore these diverse opportunities, aiming to bring the two nations closer for mutual benefit.