MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Press release for the eighth Argentine British Conference.

The Eighth ABC, a private initiative, organised jointly by the UK Organising Committee and the Consejo Argentino par alas Relaciones Internacionales (CARI), was held at the headquarters of CARI in Buenos Aires from 24 to 26th October 2003. The objectives were to discuss the bilateral relations between Argentina and Britain, including South Atlantic issues.

Delegations from UK and Argentina were headed respectively by Martin O'Neill MP, and Dr. Carlos Manuel Muñiz, President of CARI.

The conversations were held in an open and constructive atmosphere, and a review was made of developments since the last conference which took place in Wilton Park, Sussex, UK, in May 2000.

The recovery of the Argentine economy was discussed and it was noted that the strengthening of measures already adopted, the fulfilment of agreements made with international financial institutions. As well as the guarantee of a robust legal framework, are requirements to give further impetus to the flow of investments and to help restablish a climate of confidence in Argentina.

Multilateral negotiations within the framework of WTO were discussed, in particular the recent meeting in Cancum, as well as negotiation between Mercosur and the European Union and those of the FTAA. Shared opinions were noted by both delegations on subject such as need to eliminate subsidies, the freeing up of trade and the opportunities of strengthening cooperation in a number of areas.

On the subject of the "South Atlantic opportunities and development", the delegations expressed their satisfaction with the developments reached by successive ABCs. The dialogue and trust already achieved meant that, on this occasion, it was possible to speak about opportunities that could open up tourism, conservation of fishing stocks, oil and gas, and communications. At the same time, emphasis was made on the need to find solutions to the pending issues.

The delegations talked about the agreement between both countries on the subject of international politics the fight against terrorism, the participation in peacekeeping operations, open policies on immigrations, favourable environmental development, the defence of democracy and human rights. Emphasis was made of the importance of confidence building measures in the military arena and the need, highlighted by Argentina, of more progress in this area.

A detailed review was made of the positive outcome from previous ABC meetings, in particular, Fundacion Impulsar in Salta. An analysis was made of the possibility of launching new projects and cooperation in the cultural, artistic, sporting and scientific areas.

An evaluation of the future of the ABC pointed out the advantage produced as a result of the flexibility shown by the participants and representatives at successive conferences, such as on the subject of agendas. The meetings have produced a network of personal relations which at the beginning was seen as necessary and today has resulted in a very useful discussion forum to strengthen the bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and Argentina.

Finally, it was agreed that the ninth ABC will be held in the United Kingdom at a date to be agreed.