In this episode I discuss Argentina with Emmanuel Artusa-Barrell, an Argentinian living in London. Manu has a background in political risk management and is a former advisor to embassies in Argentina and the UK.

Summary

Emmanuel Artusa-Barrell discusses Argentina's food, culture, and geography, highlighting its melting pot of communities who immigrated from Europe and its diverse wildlife. He also explains Argentina's place in Latin America and the recent political upset in the country. The conversation delves into the economic challenges Argentina has faced, including the 2001 crash and cyclical crises. The resilience and adaptability of the Argentine people is explored, as well as the country's role in the changing geopolitical landscape. The conversation continues with a discussion on the legacy of the military dictatorship and the importance of defending human and civil liberties. This conversation explores the historical and current relationship between Argentina and the UK, covering the Falklands/ Malvinas War, and the opportunities for collaboration between the two countries. It also discusses the UK's approach to Latin America, and gains Emmanuel’s insights, as an Argentinian living in London, about the role of the UK in the world.

Takeaways

• Argentina is a diverse country with a rich culture, delicious food, and stunning geography.


• The country has a history of political and economic challenges, including cyclical crises and a recent political upset.


• The Argentine people have shown resilience and adaptability in the face of economic hardships.


• Argentina's role in the changing geopolitical landscape and its relationships with other countries is evolving.


• The legacy of the military dictatorship still influences the country's consciousness, and the defense of human and civil liberties remains important. The Mothers and Grandmothers of Plaza de Mayo played a significant role in Argentina's history, searching for their missing loved ones and advocating for human rights.


• The Falklands/Malvinas War was a tragic event that still has emotional significance for both Argentina and the UK. While there are differing opinions on the sovereignty of the islands, both sides recognize the need for dialogue and friendship.


• There are numerous opportunities for collaboration between Argentina and the UK, including trade, investment, and resource-sharing. Both countries have valuable resources and expertise that can benefit each other.


• The UK should pay attention to Latin America and strengthen its relationships in the region. Latin America offers stability, educated populations, and economic opportunities.


• The UK has significant strengths, including soft power, economic and military strength, and historical ties. However, it needs to use its power strategically and learn from past mistakes to navigate the changing world effectively.