"We have high expectations of strengthening our relations with Germany, the one strategic partner with which direct dialogue is still pending. The visit of my colleague Frank Steinmeier next week will be a highly productive meeting to prepare President Macri's visit to Berlin. We will know what homework we need to do on both sides in order to give final form to this dialogue," stated Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra today at the Palacio San Martín, during one of her regular press conferences.
Malcorra explained that: "in terms of our bilateral relations, we will address all issues of interest to us. Germany is a vital partner within the European Union, a key partner. We have long-standing and diversified bilateral relations that we would like to strengthen, and we think this is the right time. Chancellor Merkel had told us that she was looking forward to this rapprochement, which is why we decided to hold both my colleague's visit and our upcoming visit to Berlin as soon as possible. Expectations are really high."
· PARAGUAY CALLS FOR MERCOSUR MEETING OVER SITUATION IN VENEZUELA
With respect to the proposal made by Paraguay (a meeting of MERCOSUR Foreign Ministers to discuss the situation in Venezuela), Malcorra stated: “Eladio Loizaga, my Paraguayan counterpart, contacted me and our Uruguayan colleague, who is the President Pro Tempore of the bloc and is currently coordinating and organizing this meeting. Of course we are fully available to meet and discuss this issue. We are deeply concerned by certain information that is circulating, which I believe is what has led Paraguay to make this proposal."
"We will meet in the coming days. Once we are gathered, we will discuss matters in the usual way, based on goals and data, in a collaborative spirit. If during the meeting it is demonstrated that there are sufficient elements to apply the Democratic Clause, we will do so. Nevertheless, we have repeatedly stated that the only path towards progress with Venezuela is dialogue between the parties. We do not see any other way out. This is why we will talk to our MERCOSUR partners, and Venezuela will be present. In spite of our many and publicly known differences, I remain in contact with my Venezuelan counterpart. We have a personal relationship that has been built over time," explained Foreign Minister Malcorra, adding that: "Unasur has opened the path of dialogue. We are trying to find a way to make a positive contribution, including an initiative by the Pope to send Monsignor Gallagher."
· UN CANDIDACY AND THE ROLE OF ARGENTINA IN MULTILATERAL FORA
"I am deeply moved by this and I feel that a great responsibility has been placed upon me. What do I have to offer? Deep passion for the United Nations. This work cannot be done without passion," explained Malcorra.
I joined the UN through the World Food Programme, the UN's largest humanitarian organization, and I learned that the UN is there when no one else is. In spite of frequent criticism, which is sometimes fair and sometimes undeserved, it is undeniable that when there is no one else to help, the UN is there," added Malcorra.
"My perspective comes from the South and brings added value at a time of great tension in the world. I will try to inspire the United Nations to be more transformative. Rather than reform, I like to speak of transformation, which is primarily aimed at solving people's problems. Ultimately, it is up to Member States to choose the best profile. I am confident that my interaction on 7 June will show them the value I have to offer."
· EXCHANGE OF OFFERS WITH THE EU
"Uruguayan Foreign Minister Nin Novoa and I share our disappointment at the exchange. To be honest, I am not surprised. The EU is not satisfied with our offer either. The goal, however, was to exchange offers. Nothing better can be achieved if we do not know the exact position of the other party. We are now reviewing the EU's offer, and a first round will be held in June in Montevideo to have a technical discussion. We have to find ways to expand opportunities for both sides, identify the things that can provide added value and, based on all this, adopt a more positive attitude looking forward," stated Foreign Minister Malcorra.
Press Release No. 162/16
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