The United States economy expanded at a slower pace than expected in the last quarter of 2004, --3,1%--, down from 4% in the third quarter but still managed to end the year with an overall growth of 4,4%, the strongest since the 4,5% of 1999.
The head of the International Monetary Fund mission in Brazil said he was impressed with the performance of the Brazilian economy during 2004 which helped to significantly reduce its financial vulnerability.
In the framework of combined patrolling operations in Antarctic waters, the Argentine and Chilean navies participated last week in a contamination emergency exercise involving ARA Suboficial Castillo and the Chilean icebreaker Almirante Oscar Viel.
Our past, present and future vigilance in not allowing Argentina to become involved in any key services to the Islands has and will continue to serve us well.