§ Mr. Win GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent discussions he has had with the Government of Argentina. [91145]
§ Mr. Robin CookBritish and Argentine delegations met in London on 13 and 14 July to continue their dialogue on South Atlantic issues of common interest. I led the United Kingdom delegation, which included Members of the Falkland Islands Legislative Council.
I signed a Joint Statement with the Argentine Foreign Minister and exchanged letters recording understandings reached in these discussions on flights between the Falklands and South America, permission for Argentine passport-holders to visit the Falklands, co-operation against illegal fishing and other confidence-building measures. I have arranged for copies to be placed in the Library of the House.
This agreement has the approval of the Falkland Islands Legislative Councillors. It is an important advance for our relations with Argentina and will encourage friendship and trust between Argentina and the Falklands Islands. It has our whole-hearted support.