UK Rejects Argentine Plan to Seize Falkland Islands’ Oil Driller Assets

June 29th, 2015 - London

The British government has rejected Argentina’s plan to seize assets belonging to an oil driller operating in the disputed Falkland Islands, citing that the move is unlawful.

Background

Argentina had claimed jurisdiction over the islands and sought to seize the assets of Desire Petroleum, a company conducting drilling operations in the region. However, the UK government maintains that the islands are under its jurisdiction and have the right to develop their hydrocarbon resources.

Quote

“We have always been very clear that this is an unlawful assertion of jurisdiction over the Falklands Islands’ continental shelf, which we reject,” a spokeswoman for Britain’s Foreign Office said. “We are satisfied that the islands have the right to develop their hydrocarbons sector as a legitimate commercial venture with international oil and gas companies, and will continue to support them as they move forward.”

Argentina’s Claim

Argentina has signed several Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) with other countries, including the US, for specific purposes such as combating drug trafficking and money laundering. However, experts have questioned whether these treaties would allow Argentina to seize assets in a foreign country.

Online Forum Discussion

DanyBerger, a poster on an online forum, claimed that Argentina has the right to seize assets under MLATs, citing a treaty signed between the US and Argentina. However, others have disputed this claim, pointing out that the treaty does not apply in this case.

The Dispute

The dispute highlights the long-standing tensions between the UK and Argentina over the Falkland Islands, which have been a British overseas territory since 1833. Argentina has claimed sovereignty over the islands since the late 19th century, but its claims were rejected by the UK.

Alternative Solution

Some posters on the online forum suggested that Argentina might consider setting up an oil platform resupply centre on its mainland, rather than trying to seize assets in a foreign country. However, others pointed out that this would not resolve the dispute over the islands’ sovereignty.

Conclusion

The British government has reaffirmed its commitment to defending its territorial claims and supporting its companies operating in the region. The situation remains tense, with both sides showing no signs of backing down from their positions.