Argentina’s President Javier Milei took the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Buenos Aires, rallying right-wing leaders and supporters to unite in what he called a "cultural war" to protect Western civilization from the influence of socialism. (Photo by Tomas Cuesta/Getty Images)

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Argentinian President Milei declares ‘cultural war’ and calls for ‘global right-wing network’

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Argentina’s President Javier Milei took the stage on December 4 at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Buenos Aires, rallying right-wing leaders and supporters to unite in what he called a “cultural war” to protect Western civilisation from the influence of socialism.

In his one-hour speech, Milei argued that the West was “in danger” and right-wing leaders must not let socialism advance.

“New winds of freedom are sweeping through the world,” Milei declared, asserting that victory in what he called the ideological battle was essential for any meaningful political or economic success.

“If we don’t fight the cultural battle, it doesn’t matter how good we manage [the economy],” he said.

The libertarian president laid out a vision for a co-ordinated international right-wing alliance.

“The only way to fight socialism is from the Right,” Milei proclaimed, urging conservatives around the globe to form a “right-wing international” network.

“We must stand together, establishing channels of co-operation throughout the world. We could call ourselves a right-wing international … network of mutual assistance made up of all those interested in spreading the ideas of freedom around the world,” he said.

The event attracted prominent figures from the global conservative movement including Lara Trump, Republican Party co-chair and daughter-in-law of US President-elect Donald Trump, Santiago Abascal, leader of Spain’s nationalist Vox party, and US commentator and broadcaster Ben Shapiro.

Milei’s calls for a “cultural war” and international conservative co-operation resonate beyond Latin America.

Argentinian media reported that Milei would travel to Italy on December 13 at the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, leader of the hard-right Fratelli d’Italia party.

During his upcoming visit, Milei is expected to participate in a youth event organised by Meloni’s party, further cementing ties between the two leaders and their broader conservative movements.

The two leaders, who share a mutual admiration, previously met in November in Argentina. During Meloni’s trip to South America, they expressed their commitment to defending Western freedoms.

In September, Meloni had outlined her vision for the West, echoing themes similar to those in Milei’s speech.