Tory minister will visit Argentina for the first time in five years to increase economic ties post-Brexit

A TORY minister will today visit Argentina for the first time in five years, in a bid to drum up post-Brexit trade.

Despite ongoing hostility over the Falklands, Foreign Office Minister Sir Alan Duncan is flying to South America to “harness the commercial opportunities in Argentina”.

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Last night the Foreign Office said: “Sir Alan’s visit follows an improvement in relations between the UK and Argentina since the election of President Mauricio Macri last year.

“It marks an important step forward following more than a decade of difficulties under the isolationist approach of Argentina’s previous government.”

British exports to Argentina have increased by 29 per cent in a year, with trade accounting for £1.14 billion in 2014.

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Sir Alan Duncan will be looking to increase British commercial interests in infrastructure, mining, farming, manufacturing and financial services.

He said said last night: “Argentina has the world’s 25th largest economy and there are many areas where our countries can increase ties.”

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He added: “I look forward to seeing how British businesses can harness the commercial opportunities in Argentina at the Business and Investment Forum.

But he made clear: “Of course, our commitment to the rights of the Falkland Islanders is clear and will not change, and we will continue to support them as they look to develop their economy.”