Argentine Cabinet Gathers for Pre-Davos Barbecue

In a unique blend of official duties and informal gatherings, the Argentine cabinet, led by President Javier Milei, convened this Sunday at the Quinta de Olivos, the presidential residence. This meeting, which spanned over two hours, was not just another bureaucratic assembly; it culminated in a shared asado (barbecue), setting the stage for the president’s upcoming trip to the Davos Forum.

Presidential Portfolio Review and ‘Ley Ómnibus’ Progress

Sources from the Presidency reported that the meeting focused on various portfolio matters and the progress of the ‘ley ómnibus,’ a pivotal legislative project under congressional committees’ review. The ‘ley ómnibus,’ or the Bases and Starting Points for the Freedom of Argentinians Act, is a cornerstone of the Executive’s agenda, reflecting the administration’s key policies and vision.

The gathering was notable for its high-level attendance, including almost all ministers except for Sandra Pettovello, the head of Human Capital. Key figures such as Vice President Victoria Villarruel, Chief of Staff Nicolás Posse, the president’s sister and Secretary-General of the Presidency Karina Milei, spokesperson Manuel Adorni, Media Secretary Eduardo Serenellini, Executive Secretary of Government José Rolandi, advisers Federico Sturzenegger and Santiago Caputo, and Martín Menem, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, were present.

The meeting also welcomed an external guest, social anthropologist María Carman from the National Council for Scientific and Technical Research (Conicet), known for her extensive work on social issues and housing in vulnerable areas.

Post-Meeting Social Media Update

Following the meeting, the presidential spokesperson took to X (formerly Twitter) to describe the meeting as “fruitful and passionate” without divulging specific details.

President Milei, known for his proclaimed austerity since his electoral campaign and the commencement of his presidency last December 10, shared on Radio Mitre the practical reasoning behind the scheduling and format of this meeting.

Given the inability to hold the usual Tuesday and Thursday sessions at Casa Rosada (the Government House), he opted to advance the ministerial meeting to Sunday. Emphasizing the cost-sharing approach, he mentioned, “As it’s lunchtime, we’re going to eat an asado. It will be a la Romana; everyone will have to pay for their share of the barbecue.”

President Milei, who moved into the presidential residence on January 8, has adopted a hybrid work model since then. He operates from Casa Rosada only on Tuesdays and Thursdays for the cabinet meetings. At the same time, the rest of the week, he works remotely.

This Saturday, Milei also shared images

of ongoing works at Quinta de Olivos, preparing to accommodate his “four-legged children,” four large and aggressive English Mastiff dogs. In discussing these renovations, he expressed experiencing the same import limitations that affect other Argentinians, emphasizing his request to refrain from receiving special treatment due to his presidential status.

Milei’s approach to governance, marked by a mix of austerity and pragmatism, is evident not only in his policy decisions but also in his lifestyle and work habits. His decision to work remotely on non-cabinet days and insistence on no preferential treatment in personal matters reflect a leadership style that resonates with his electoral promises of frugality and equality.

Prelude to Davos

The meeting and subsequent barbecue at Quinta de Olivos are a prelude to Milei’s journey to the Davos Forum, scheduled for Monday. His participation in the Forum, where he is set to speak on Wednesday, is eagerly anticipated. Milei’s presence on such a significant global platform is expected to shed light on Argentina’s current economic and political landscape and his administration’s vision for the country’s future.

As Milei steps onto the global stage at Davos, his administration’s domestic policies, particularly the ‘ley ómnibus,’ will be scrutinized for their impact on Argentina’s socio-economic environment. The legislation, viewed as a beacon of the government’s strategy, aims to address fundamental freedoms and economic reforms crucial for Argentina’s growth and stability.

Strategic Alignment at Quinta de Olivos

Therefore, the Quinta de Olivos meeting was more than just a cabinet gathering; it was a strategic alignment of minds and a reinforcement of the administration’s collective resolve ahead of a significant international appearance. The informal setting of a barbecue, a cultural staple in Argentina, symbolizes the government’s attempt to blend traditional Argentine values with modern governance.

Also read: Argentina Inflation Surges Past 210%, Challenging Milei’s Government

The Argentine cabinet’s meeting at Quinta de Olivos, culminating in a communal asado, reflects the Milei administration’s approach to governance – one that blends formal policymaking with informal, culturally rooted practices. As President Milei heads to Davos, his administration’s policies and the outcomes of this meeting will be under international scrutiny, offering insights into Argentina’s direction under his leadership.