SECRETARY KERRY: Good morning, everybody. I am very, very happy to welcome my friend and no stranger to the United States, Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra. She worked at the United Nations for a long period of time, working directly as chief of staff with the Secretary-General, so she knows us and she knows our country well.

But most importantly, I want to begin by thanking you for a wonderful reception for President Obama in Argentina. He really enjoyed himself, and it was a historic visit. We very much welcome Argentina’s restoration of its own engagement in politics in so many different issues – on energy, on human rights, on the environment, on trade, and we very much look forward to the signing in New York on the 22nd of April, where I know the president will be there and you’ll be there with him. And I look forward to being there as we sign this historic agreement.

But Argentina and the United States have a lot of issues to work on together. The presidents advanced that during President Obama’s visit. I look forward today to talking about the ways in which we can focus on a number of different issues together, particularly on the economic front, on climate change, on energy, trade, and finally, on some of the regional challenges, particularly, for instance, Venezuela, where Argentina has made some very important contributions already. So a lot to talk about, a busy week, and my pleasure to welcome you here.

FOREIGN MINISTER MALCORRA: Thank you, Mr. Secretary. It’s great to be back in a different role, as you described. We just had the honor and the pleasure to host President Obama, and let me start by saying once again that we really thank the Administration for releasing all the documents that pertain to the dark times of Argentina. I mean, the human rights aspect of that release is key for us, so we really appreciate that taking place 10 years in advance.

You mentioned we have a lot in common. President Macri has defined very clearly that Argentina has to insert itself in the international arena to play the role that historically it has played. We feel that, without any doubt, the United States is a key partner in that, and we plan to have a serious, predictable, and intelligent relationship with you. So a lot to work on, and especially a lot to land on reality some of the commitments we have made, so I look forward to working closely with you.

SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you. Thank you. Let’s go to work.

FOREIGN MINISTER MALCORRA: Let’s do that. (Laughter.)

SECRETARY KERRY: Thank you very much.