Britain’s sovereignty over the Falkland Islands is not up for negotiation as long as the islanders wish to remain a British territory, according to Lord Cameron. The foreign secretary is about to embark on the first visit to the islands by a cabinet member since 2016. This comes after the Argentine President, Javier Milei, called for the islands to be handed over to his country last month. Lord Cameron confirmed that the Falkland Islanders should be proud of the vibrant community they have built.
The foreign secretary’s visit is set against the backdrop of continued calls by President Milei for the self-governed territory to be handed over to Buenos Aires. In response to Milei’s demands following their recent meeting, the Foreign Office said that they would “agree to disagree and do so politely”.
During his trip, Lord Cameron is anticipated to pay his respects to those who perished during the 1982 Falklands War, in which 649 Argentinian personnel, three islanders, and 255 British servicemen died. He is also expected to meet with Falkland Islands government leaders, visit the penguins, and explore the capital, Stanley.
A Hong Kong-style handover has been suggested by Milei, who has emphasised that war “is not a solution.” However, Lord Cameron confirmed that the UK government’s position regarding the island’s sovereignty is unwavering. The Falkland Islanders voted almost unanimously in 2013 to remain a UK overseas territory. Lord Cameron last visited the Falkland Islands when he was Prime Minister. Subsequently, in a 90% turnout referendum, 1,513 of the islanders voted to remain a UK overseas territory while only three voted against.
Lord Cameron is expected to visit Paraguay, the first time a British foreign secretary has done so. He will later participate in a meeting of G20 nations, including Russia’s Sergei Lavrov, in Brazil
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