Talks between Ban and Argentine official focus on dispute with United Kingdom

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today took note of Argentina’s concerns regarding the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) during a meeting at United Nations Headquarters with the country’s Foreign Minister, Jorge E. Taiana.

Mr. Ban expressed satisfaction at Argentina’s commitment to resolving its dispute with the United Kingdom over the islands in a peaceful manner, according to information provided by a UN spokesperson.

In addition, the Secretary-General reiterated that his good offices are available when requested by all parties in a dispute.

The dispute between the two countries – which fought a war over the islands in 1982 – is back in the spotlight owing to reported oil drilling by the UK off the Falkland Islands.

According to media reports, Argentina says that the UK has broken a UN resolution forbidding unilateral development in disputed waters, while the British Government says the islands have a ‘legitimate right’ to develop an oil industry within their waters.