The Argentine government is undergoing significant changes in its diplomatic structure, particularly with the recent decision to remove ambassador Martín García Moritán from his post in Uruguay. This move is part of a broader strategy initiated by Gerardo Werthein, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, aimed at redesigning the structures and orientation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The rationale behind this decision reflects what has been described as a “chainsaw logic” within the diplomatic sphere. As the government prepares to appoint a new representative to the Kingdom of Spain, the implications of these changes are becoming clearer.
According to information confirmed by Infobae, the former ambassador was called back to Buenos Aires for two primary reasons. Firstly, the government has decided to unify its diplomatic missions in the capital of Uruguay, consolidating the Argentine embassy in Montevideo with the representation of the Latin American Integration Alliance (ALADI). Secondly, Moritán has reached the age of 71, which exceeds the retirement age mandated for diplomats. These two factors not only have economic implications but are also politically motivated, as the government aims to eliminate what it perceives as “privileges” within the state apparatus, which has traditionally remained insulated from the political fluctuations associated with public spending adjustments. Official sources explained, “There cannot be public officials earning $8,000 a month while others earn $1,000 or $1,500.”
As a result, the government will proceed with the retirement of personnel who have reached the required age to leave active service. Currently, there are 30 diplomats in this situation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not raised any questions regarding Moritán‘s professional conduct; however, his recall, which effectively means removal, is linked to the unification of representations aimed at reducing costs by several million dollars. Although there has been no official confirmation, sources within the Palacio San Martín have mentioned the possibility of Alan Claudio Béraud, the current head of Mercosur and ALADI, succeeding Moritán.
A source stated, “The world is tending towards concurrent embassies. A country like Argentina, which has its own issues, should not maintain embassies in the same city simultaneously. It is a matter of logic.” The source further elaborated, “The president asks us to manage taxpayer money with efficiency and effectiveness; spending unnecessarily is not needed. It is more a political issue of common sense.”
Regarding the situation in Spain, the profile of the future ambassador to be appointed by Javier Milei is still being defined. It is anticipated that the new appointee will be a significant businessman, as indicated by well-informed spokespersons. The diplomatic relationship with Spain is of great importance for Argentina, serving as a gateway to the European Union. Currently, Pedro Sánchez, the socialist leader of Spain, is in power, and Milei has had a personal clash with him, which has translated into institutional tensions, including the unilateral withdrawal of the ambassador.
The previous ambassador, Roberto Bosch, was removed after relations had been normalized. He was to be replaced by Alejandro Alonso Sainz, but this nomination was deactivated due to complicated past allegations during his tenure as consul in Barcelona. Sources clarified that “that file is closed” and also noted that Nimo had been mentioned as a potential candidate, but “he was never a candidate, nor will he be.”
The responsibility for appointing the new ambassador lies with Werthein. Meanwhile, the Ministry is working on the agenda for Washington, where Werthein is scheduled to travel on Friday to participate in the swearing-in of Donald Trump as he returns to the White House. This visit is mandated by diplomatic law, which stipulates that 65 ministers and 67 ambassadors must retire upon reaching the age of 70.
Specific convocations are being made, such as for Luis María Kreckler, who will remain suspended from retirement until he completes his mission before returning to retirement. The rule applies to anyone who has reached retirement age and must request their retirement; there are no exceptions or privileges. Sources indicated, “There are many people in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In some cases, there is an excess of diplomats.”
These same informants emphasized that “they earn double or triple what the market pays, and on top of that, they have job stability under the Foreign Service Law. They go elsewhere, fulfill their duties abroad, and filter sensitive information, exposing themselves to potential criminal offenses.” They added, “They can be removed by the president’s orders. The law applies, regardless of personal ideas held by Mauricio Macri, Alberto Fernández, or Javier Milei. The same applies to those who perform poorly.”
