BUENOS AIRES, May 23 (Xinhua) -- Argentine Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra highlighted the importance of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, calling it a crucial multilateral integration project.

Speaking here to Radio Continental on Monday about President Mauricio Macri's recent trip to China, Malcorra said the initiative is a very important one that "goes beyond the traditional Silk Road to reach Latin America, which is why President Macri was invited" to attended the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing on May 14-15.

As many as 29 foreign heads of state and government as well as delegates from some 130 countries attended the forum.

"It was not just a state visit to China, as before this, he (Macri) was at the Silk Road event launched by President Xi (Jinping)," the minister said.

After the forum, Macri met Chinese leaders, including Xi, during his state visit.

Speaking last week after returning from China, Macri said:" In China, we felt a very important step forward was taken. This was the third time in less than 18 months I saw Xi Jinping. We have been able to create an important link, which is always important. Above all, trust has been created between both countries, between both governments."

The two sides signed a range of agreements on investment, trade and sports. "We will help them (China) to develop football through the exchange of young players. There are... many agreements, it was truly very positive. This is an ongoing process," Macri said.

China is Argentina's second-largest trading partner and a main importer of its agricultural products. In 2014, the two countries elevated bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.