Argentina Clarifies Strait of Magellan Position Amid Chilean Protests

Argentina’s foreign ministry reaffirmed Chile’s sovereignty over the Strait of Magellan on Tuesday after protests from Chilean authorities were sparked by an Argentine general’s comments questioning the status of the sea route. The ministry’s statement emphasized Argentina's adherence to two treaties that recognize Chile’s sovereignty: the 1881 Boundary Treaty and the 1984 Treaty of Peace and Friendship. These treaties establish perpetual neutrality and freedom of navigation for all nations’ flags and were reaffirmed after military tensions between the countries in the 1980s.

Air Force chief Brigadier General Gustavo Javier Valverde triggered the controversy during a Sunday interview when he described "Magallanes, the south, and the Drake" as matters of "sovereignty" and stressed the need for Argentina to maintain presence in this strategic area connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

"Magallanes, the south, and the Drake are matters of sovereignty," said Brigadier General Gustavo Javier Valverde. His statements were perceived in Chile as a challenge to its sovereignty over the strait, prompting Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna to announce a formal diplomatic protest.

"Chilean sovereignty over the entire Strait of Magellan is indisputable and based on the two treaties," said Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna. Chilean Interior Minister Claudio Alvarado and lawmakers also condemned the remarks and called for a strong response.

In response, Argentina’s foreign ministry stressed that the treaties "remain fully in force" and are considered "definitive" by the country. The ministry highlighted the "strategic importance" of Argentina’s southern interests, including the Malvinas, South Atlantic, and Antarctica regions, citing their importance due to natural resources, maritime routes, and global supply chains. The statement concluded by reaffirming Argentina’s commitment to its bilateral relationship with Chile and urged that common issues be addressed through established institutional channels.