China Accuses US of Bullying After Bessent’s Argentina Comments

China has accused the United States of engaging in Cold War-era intervention in Latin America, following comments made by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Bessent suggested that Argentina's president, Alberto Fernandez, is "committed to getting China out" of the country. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian responded, stating that the US is attempting to "bully" and "undermine" Argentina's sovereignty and its right to make independent choices. Zhao emphasized that China's cooperation with Argentina is based on mutual respect and beneficial to both countries. The tensions arise as the US seeks to counter China's growing economic and political influence in Latin America, a region traditionally within the US sphere of influence. China has made significant investments in infrastructure and trade deals with countries in the region, which the US views as a threat to its regional dominance. The exchange highlights the ongoing geopolitical rivalry between the US and China, as they compete for influence and resources on the global stage.