[HIGHLIGHTS] After US concern about "espionage", a government delegation began an "evaluation" visit to the Chinese base

Argentine officials visit Chinese and European space stations in Mendoza. U.S.

concerned about possibility of espionage from Chinese base. Visit simultaneous with European one to reduce tension with China. It is the first official visit made by the current government. It aims to "strengthen transparency and relations between Argentina and its European and Chinese counterparts," said official spokespersons. It will be chaired by Alejandro Cosentino, Secretary of Innovation, Science and Technology, and the Secretary of National Strategy, Jorge Antelo. The visit is to evaluate the operational status, security, and compliance with the standards established for these infrastructures, reported official spokesmen. The European station is to reduce Chinese unrest due to statements by Argentine officials who spoke of an "inspection" of the Chinese base in Neuquén. The Chinese base is in the 200 hectares where it is installed in Bajada del Agrio, Neuqén, in Argentina's Patagonia region.