Argentinian President Javier Milei delivered a wide-ranging address at Yeshiva University in Manhattan, where he surprised the audience by quoting the Rebbe and speaking warmly about the Jewish people, Israel, and the moral foundations of Western civilization.

The visit came during Milei’s three-day trip to New York aimed at strengthening Argentina’s economic ties with American financial leaders. Yeshiva University was the only university stop on the trip.

Milei appeared as the featured guest in the university’s “Great Conversations” series together with Yeshiva University President Rabbi Ari Berman, engaging students and faculty in a discussion about economic policy, leadership, and global challenges.

Speaking in Spanish with simultaneous translation, Milei described himself as “proud to be the most Zionist president in the world,” pointing to his strong support for Israel and the Jewish people. Since becoming president, he has visited Eretz Yisroel multiple times and has been photographed frequently at Jewish sites, including the Rebbe’s Ohel.

During the conversation, Rabbi Berman asked the Argentine leader what advice he would offer students preparing to enter public life and leadership.

In response, Milei cited the Rebbe, sharing a message that would resonate with the audience.

“As the Rebbe used to say,” Milei told the students, “it’s not just about guidance to reach paradise, but about bringing paradise to earth.”

He continued by explaining that when a person works with passion and faith, rooted in the values of Jewish tradition, it not only leads to personal success but also contributes positively to the world.

Rabbi Berman noted that the Argentine president’s appreciation for Judaism runs deeper than political alignment.

“The fact that he is a friend of Israel and a friend of the Jewish people is very important,” Berman said. “But there is something deeper here — his appreciation of Judaism and Torah.”

During the discussion, Milei also addressed global challenges, warning that alliances between socialist movements and Islamist forces have intensified since October 7. Despite these threats, he expressed confidence that the Jewish people will endure.

“You will never be able to defeat the Jewish people,” he said.