Argentina Roundup: IMF bailout, inflation, LGBTQ

Inflation

Argentina's monthly inflation dropped to single digits in April, the first time in six months. This is attributed to austerity measures and a slowing economy. The annual inflation rate is still the highest in the world at nearly 300%. According to news agency Saltwire, experts believe inflation will continue to slow due to decreased demand and government spending cuts.

IMF bailout

The IMF has agreed to release the next tranche of loans for Argentina, praising President Milei's austerity measures, which have helped restore macroeconomic stability. The $792 million payment will be available in June, helping to alleviate the country's worst economic crisis in two decades, AP News reports. Despite criticism, the IMF acknowledges the decisive implementation of the stabilization plan and the faster-than-anticipated progress in the country's economic overhaul.

LGBTQ rights

Three women have died in Argentina after a boarding house was set on fire with two lesbian couples inside. A 62-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the attack, which is being described as a hate crime by the Argentine LGBT Federation. According to reports, the attack has sparked protests and calls for justice for the victims. The organization also criticized the government for its anti-LGBTQ+ policies.

Argentina to Armenia ambassador

Alen Simonyan, the RA NA President, received the Ambassador of Argentina to Armenia, Rafael Enrique Gonzalez Aleman. They discussed the mutual respect and trust between the two countries and the Armenian community's cultural role in Argentina. They also talked about the security situation in the South Caucasus and Armenia's efforts to establish peace, which Argentina supports, First Channel News indicated.

Argentina and Venezuela's diplomatic ties

Argentina is pressuring Venezuela to allow six opposition aides, seeking refuge at the Argentine embassy in Caracas, to leave the country safely. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro reneged on promises to allow their safe passage, putting their physical safety at risk. This move comes amidst Maduro's crackdown on political opposition ahead of the upcoming presidential elections. Argentina is expected to escalate diplomatic pressure on Venezuela to resolve the issue, with hopes of regional support, Saltwire reports.