Members of the UK's Conservative Party are urging the government to veto Argentina's potential entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade bloc. The call comes as Argentinian President Javier Milei has reiterated his country's claim to the Falkland Islands, which Argentina refers to as 'Las Malvinas.'
Tories have stated that Argentina cannot be part of the CPTPP while attempting to 'bully' Britain. This stance follows Milei's announcement of sanctions on oil exploration around the islands, reportedly encouraged by an ally, Donald Trump, who has pledged to 'review' traditional U.S. neutrality on the dispute.
The UK government has consistently maintained that sovereignty of the Falkland Islands is not in doubt. A 2013 referendum among islanders showed 99.8% voted to remain British, with a 92% turnout.
Shadow foreign secretary Tom Tugendhat expressed that Argentina's desire to join the CPTPP stems from its need to address an economic crisis. He emphasized that Britain can determine whether to allow Argentina's accession and highlighted that the UK cannot welcome trade allies who pose threats.
"Milei needs Britain as a friend. He wants to join the CPTPP to end his economic crisis. Britain can decide if we let him in," Tugendhat stated. "There is no better friend than Britain, but we cannot welcome those who threaten us as trade allies."
Tugendhat added, "Milei is banking on Britain's disunited foreign policy not serving in the interests of Britain and quietly letting him in. This is about making foreign policy work in Britain's interest, uniting our country and delivering what matters to us. As Foreign Secretary, I will put Britain's security first and bring diplomacy, trade, and military together to show strength, unity, and serve the British people."
Britain gained full access to the CPTPP, which has a combined GDP of approximately £13 trillion, earlier this month. The bloc currently includes Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.
Argentina's forces attempted to seize control of the Falklands in 1982, leading to a conflict that resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentines, 255 Britons, and three islanders. The UK dispatched a naval task force to reclaim the islands.