Chile tells Argentina “countries do not ask permission” for its ship bound for the Falklands

Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna has firmly stated that Chile will not seek permission from Argentina for the upcoming voyage of the Danstar, a cargo ship bound for the Falkland Islands. This decision is based on the principle of innocent passage recognized by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which grants the right to free navigation and free passage. The minister expressed Chile's trust that this right would be respected.

In response to Argentina's concerns, Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno emphasized that the vessel must request permission to cross Argentine jurisdictional waters. Quirno cited the regular passage of thousands of ships through the Strait of Magellan without seeking authorization, including those heading towards the Falkland Islands. Since 2010, Argentina has required prior authorization for ships sailing between the mainland and the islands or crossing its waters.

The Danstar, a 72-meter Chilean-flagged cargo ship operated by a private company, aims to reopen a commercial route that was suspended for over 15 years. This route would transport essential supplies, such as food, machinery, and construction materials, to the Falkland Islands, serving as an alternative to regular shipments arriving from Montevideo. The initiative is supported by the Falkland Islands Development Corporation and the city of Punta Arenas.

Chilean officials privately expressed indignation towards Argentina's stance, given that Argentina has historically allowed regular trade between the islands and Uruguay without significant pressure. The Argentine government, however, is apprehensive about the potential logistical support the route could provide to the Sea Lion oil project. Chilean diplomats privately expressed their concerns about this issue.

The exchange between Chile and Argentina is unfolding during a critical period in the dispute over the Falkland Islands. The International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea is set to announce its decision on Argentina's request to halt the Sea Lion oil project on November 28. Additionally, Argentina's Chamber of Deputies is debating a sovereignty defense bill, which would strengthen sanctions on companies involved in resource exploitation in the archipelago.

Recently, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown had raised concerns in London regarding the islanders' right to self-determination.