Lorraine Williamson
The Argentinian government has named Alejandro Alonso Sainz as its new ambassador to Spain, replacing Roberto Bosch. This decision, confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, forms part of President Javier Milei’s broader shake-up of Argentina’s foreign relations strategy.
Sainz, a seasoned diplomat, previously served for eight years as consul in Barcelona, overseeing a jurisdiction that includes Catalonia, Valencia, Alicante, Aragon, Andorra, Castellón, Huesca, and Zaragoza. Moreover, this region is home to around 150,000 Argentine nationals.
The announcement marks a significant shift in the diplomatic relationship between Argentina and Spain. As reported by El País, tensions between Milei and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have underscored the need for adept representation. Sánchez recently installed Joaquín Aristegui as Spain’s ambassador to Argentina, signalling reciprocal changes in the diplomatic ranks.
Bosch’s departure and context
Roberto Bosch’s removal from the Madrid post follows controversies surrounding his tenure. Critics within Milei’s administration accused Bosch of misrepresenting the president’s recent visit to Madrid for a Vox summit, framing it as a private rather than an official trip. This misstep, combined with Milei’s public criticisms of Sánchez and his wife, Begoña Gómez, strained relations further and led the Spanish government to withdraw its ambassador from Buenos Aires.
Bosch’s fate was sealed when Milei replaced Foreign Minister Diana Mondino with Gerardo Werthein, who has actively sought to realign the diplomatic corps. Werthein, backed by the Casa Rosada, emphasised the need to remove individuals seen as proponents of agendas contrary to Milei’s vision.
Sainz’s credentials and challenges
Alejandro Alonso Sainz brings extensive experience and a reputation for pragmatism. As noted by El Economista, his tenure as consul in Barcelona earned him recognition for managing a complex jurisdiction and fostering community ties among Argentine expatriates. Sainz’s background aligns closely with Werthein’s efforts to stabilise Argentina’s diplomatic approach while navigating Milei’s confrontational stance toward Spain.
Sainz’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to mend bridges while asserting Argentina’s interests. His proximity to seasoned diplomats, such as Luis Kreckler, the current consul general in São Paulo, positions him as a key figure in recalibrating relations with Spain.
The road ahead
As both nations adjust to new ambassadors, the diplomatic dynamic will likely remain under scrutiny. Milei’s administration faces the challenge of balancing its ideological agenda with the practicalities of international diplomacy. For Sainz, success will depend on navigating these tensions and fostering a productive relationship with Spain amidst lingering unease.
Observers will watch closely as Sainz assumes his new role, with official confirmation expected within weeks. His appointment underscores the evolving priorities of Milei’s foreign policy and the broader shifts in Argentina’s global engagement.