Argentina to sue over oil project

Argentina will take legal action against any companies involved in oil exploration in the Falkland Islands, foreign minister …

Argentina will take legal action against any companies involved in oil exploration in the Falkland Islands, foreign minister Hector Timerman said today.

British explorer Rockhopper has been seeking a partner to invest in the $2 billion Sea Lion project. Borders & Southern and Falkand Oil & Gas are both set to drill wells to the south of the islands later this year.

Mr Timerman, during a news conference, called the activities "illegal" and "illegitimate". He said Argentina will bring civil and criminal charges in order to "sanction the companies involved.

"Companies providing logistical and financial support to the exploitation of Falklands oil will be included in the suits, he said.

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Mr Timerman said the conflict stems from Argentina's long-standing claim to sovereignty over the Falklands, or Islas Malvinas as they are known there.

Thirty years after it repelled an Argentine invasion of the Falklands, Britain vowed to defend the archipelago and says it will only negotiate sovereignty or oil rights if the 3,000 islanders call for talks. But Falkland residents, known as "Kelpers" show no signs of wanting to break with Britain.

Reuters