The Argentine Foreign Ministry announced on Apr. 10 that 24 countries have expressed support for Argentina’s claim to sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands. This backing was reaffirmed during the Ninth Ministerial Meeting of the South Atlantic Peace and Cooperation Zone (ZOPACAS), held in Rio de Janeiro.
In an official statement, the government thanked member countries of ZOPACAS for their “firm and renewed support” regarding Argentina’s position in its diplomatic dispute with the United Kingdom over the archipelago.
According to officials from the Foreign Ministry, this declaration emphasizes respect for Argentina’s territorial integrity and calls for a peaceful resolution through bilateral dialogue between Argentina and the United Kingdom. The participating countries reiterated their request that both nations resume negotiations on sovereignty, following United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2065, which acknowledges an ongoing territorial dispute between them.
The joint document also raised concerns about unilateral exploration and exploitation of natural resources in the disputed area, especially related to hydrocarbon activities in the South Atlantic.
Government representatives said this new show of international support “consolidates Argentina’s position” on the diplomatic stage. They also confirmed that efforts will continue toward achieving a “peaceful, just, and lasting” solution according to international law.
ZOPACAS was established in 1986 by a UN resolution. It brings together 24 countries from South America and West Africa with aims to promote regional cooperation and maintain peace and stability in the South Atlantic.
