Colombia's Duque searching for trade, investment on trip to Argentina

Colombian President Iván Duque arrived in Buenos Aires on Sunday for his first official visit to Argentina, with the trip set to focus on trade and investment opportunities.

The 42-year-old, the youngest president in Colombia's recent history, met with President Mauricio Macri at the Olivos presidential residence on Sunday for dinner. The duo were accompanied by their respective wives.

Argentina and Colombia are expected to sign a number of agreements focused on trade and investment, government officials briefed reporters. 

Upon his arrival, Duque declared that he wants to improve and increase trade between the two nations, stimulate investments and sign agreements in areas such as industry, agricultural development, science and technology and fight against corruption.

"This is an important visit, and I hope that after it we will have much more economic activity in our country that comes from Argentina," said Duque told reporters at the airport.

The arrival of Duque, who took office in August last year, comes just 72 hours after Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro visited Buenos Aires. The Colombian leader, like his Brazilian counterpart, is expected to offer strong support for President Macri, who is seeking re-election in October.

On Monday, the Colombian leader will breakfast with local businessmen at the Palacio Duhau-Park Hyatt and lay flowers at the Monument to Libertador General José de San Martín.

He will meet with President Macri at the Casa Rosada for additional meetings and a press conference.

- TIMES/AFP