MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Positions on Falklands/Malvinas “remain intact”.

No changes are expected in the current sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, with both Britain and Argentina holding their positions. This seems to have been the message from Sir Gareth Williams, president of the House of Lords, Prime Minister Tony Blair' special envoy to the assumption of Argentine president Nestor Kirchner who also praised the institutional stability of the country and said much could be advanced in fields of mutual interest.

According to the Argentine press, Sir Gareth delivered a personal letter from Mr. Blair to president Kirchner where the British Prime Minister reiterates support for Argentina, particularly during the crisis and its consequences, but also points out that "complex reforms" are still required as well as the recovery of "investors' trust".

Sir Gareth said he had carefully read Mr. Kirchner's first speech as president, specially his promise that we will "not claudicate" in our Falklands sovereignty claim, "and I think what President Kirchner was stating is that the Argentine position remains intact, and the position of the British government also remains intact. But this can't prevent us from advancing in all those issues of mutual interest".

When asked why the recent Aerolineas Argentinas request for direct flights to Falklands had been rejected, Sir Gareth replied he was not part of the negotiation process but apparently British Ambassador in Buenos Aires Sir Robin Christopher stated that "this was not contemplated in the July 1999 declaration".

Sir Gareth, who apparently has visited Argentina several times and has a good knowledge of the country, insisted in his meeting with the press that Britain is very interested in increasing trade and political cooperation, however the rule of law and the transparency and independence of the Judiciary branch are a priority in any agenda, and this does not only refer to sovereign bond holders.

"An investment, be it British or from a simple Argentine individual, demands a degree of concern. Everybody wants to see his savings safely respected, be it corporations or individuals". Sir Gareth also recalled Britain's support in helping Argentina reach an agreement with the International Monetary Fund and in demanding before the European Union a greater liberalization of "trade in agriculture".

Finally Sir Gareth expressed his surprise and satisfaction at the way the presidential assumption ceremony took place. "It was extraordinary, no protests, no demonstrations. An unbelievable climate compared to just a year and a half ago".

In his letter Mr. Blair praised President Kirchner and Argentina for the strength displayed by the country and its institutions in addressing peacefully and democratically, extraordinarily challenging and unprecedented circumstances.

Several centuries long links and the current solid relation, "reflect the multiple interests and values we share", reads the letter adding that Britain helped Argentina confront the recent crisis and its consequences and "we are pleased the economy is showing signs of recovery".

"I acknowledge the challenge that now lies ahead, turning those signs in a sustainable, long term recovery. It won't be easy. Complex reforms are required. Investors' trust will be needed", but the United Kingdom as well as the international community will be wanting to extend all its support to address these important challenges.

Another message from Queen Elizabeth II wishing success to President Kirchner and the Argentine people was delivered by British Ambassador Sir Robin Christopher.