30/03/2004

Britain formally protests against conduct of Argentinian vessel

Britain has made a formal protest to the Argentinian government after one of its naval icrebreakers breached shipping restrictions in waters around the Falkland Islands.

On March 15 and 16 the Argentine icebreaker, Almirante Irizar, sailed through the Falklands Outer Conservation Zone and the Falklands Interim Conservation Zone, the Foreign Office said.

During the time that it was inside these zones, the Argentine vessel was challenging other vessels to identify themselves. The Foreign Office said that while travel through conservation zones is permissible, the policing of the zones by a foreign vessel contravenes the Falkland Islands exclusive jurisdiction.

The government said that it approached Argentine authorities for an explanation – and their response was not satisfactory, the Foreign Office said.

Foreign Office Minister Bill Rammell said: "We have therefore made a formal protest to the Argentine government concerning the actions of the Almirante Irizar, underlining the need to ensure that this type of incident does not happen again. This note also reiterated that HMG has no doubts about UK sovereignty over the Falkland Islands.

"I have spoken to Falkland Island Councillors about this incident. I share their concerns and I have briefed them on our response. I assured them of our continued firm support."

(gmcg)

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