Leaders of the Mercosur countries, gathered in Foz do Iguaçu, approved a special declaration reaffirming Argentina's sovereign rights over the Falkland (Malvinas) Islands and rejecting 'the adoption of unilateral measures' related to the exploration or exploitation of natural resources in the disputed area. This was reported by the Argentine News Agency (NA). Joint declaration and rejection of unilateral actions The document, released at the conclusion of the 67th Summit of Mercosur Heads of State, is signed by the presidents of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, as well as the foreign minister of Bolivia. Representatives of Chile, Panama, and Associated States also attended. The declaration reiterates its 'support for the legitimate rights of the Argentine Republic in the sovereignty dispute regarding the Falklands Question' and recalls commitments made since the joint declaration of June 25, 1996. The heads of state emphasized that any unilateral exploration of renewable and non-renewable natural resources in the disputed area 'is not compatible with UN General Assembly Resolution 31/49'. Appeal to the United Nations The text agreed upon calls for a new approach to the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, to 'renew efforts to resume negotiations and achieve a peaceful solution in the shortest possible time.' Likewise, the leaders recognized Argentina's right to take legal action against unauthorized activities in the area, in accordance with international law.
