Big names draw eye at US Embassy’s Independence Day party

Top-level government ministers and officials were out in large numbers on Tuesday night as the US Embassy in Buenos Aires hosted its annual Independence Day bash.

Members of the American community in Argentina, civil society groups, business leaders, ambassadors, judges, senators, national deputies and members of the Armed Forces were joined by ministers Patricia Bullrich (Security), Mario Lugones (Health), Mariano Cúneo Libarona (Justice), Guillermo Francos (Cabinet Chief) at the party

Economy Minister Luis Caputo was accompanied by his wife and some of his closest allies in government, not least Finance Secretary Pablo Quirno, who seemed to be in good spirits.

But the figure that drew the eye of journalists present was the appearance of presidential spin doctor Santiago Caputo. President Javier Milei’s top advisor keeps a relatively low profile and is not known for his love of the cameras – his presence at such a public event ensured he was closely observed.

Also out in large numbers were some of PRO and La Libertad Avanza’s most high-profile lawmakers, including Fernando Iglesias, Bertie Benegas Lynch and José Luis Espert.

Another notable attendee was Grupo Clarín CEO Héctor Magnett, making a rare public appearance.

With the ambassador’s post currently vacant (no arrival date yet for nominee Peter Lamelas), Charges d’Affaires Abigail Dressel hosted the event – one of her final public functions before her mission in Argentina ends.

In her speech, Dressel welcomed those present and explained the party’s theme – “The Great American Road Trip” – a choice she said was representative of “the spirit of adventure, community, and independence that unite” the two nations.

Dressel, who was introduced by TV host Iván de Pineda, hailed the “unique moment of alignment” between US President Donald Trump and Argentina’s President Javier Milei and praised the economic reforms carried out by the government, which she said had paved the way for “new opportunities for companies from both countries.”

Highlighting the high number of trade missions and top-level US officials to Argentina, Dressel talked up the “potential of the trade relationship” and advances in key sectors like oil, gas, and critical minerals, among others.