The Argentine government decided to repeal Decree 457/2021, which contemplated shared administration of the Strait of Magellan and the Drake Passage, in response to pressure and demands from the Chilean government .
This decision comes after Chile expressed its rejection of the proposal through a formal letter in August 2021 , claiming that these waters are Chilean sovereign territory under the boundary treaties of 1881 and 1984 .
The disturbing decree, published in July 2021, prompted an immediate diplomatic response from Chile , which considers the Strait of Magellan , including both shores, to be an integral part of its sovereignty .
The reaction was swift, with the Chilean government requesting Argentina eliminate any implication of "joint control" in its waters. In its letter, Chile defended its position by arguing that, although bilateral cooperation is desirable, the waters of the Strait must be recognized as part of Chilean territory , in accordance with international law.
Recently, the Chilean Embassy in Buenos Aires reopened the issue when inquiring about the status of Decree 457/2021 and its possible repeal.
The Argentine Secretariat of International Defense Affairs responded by acknowledging that the previous administration made a mistake in interpreting current treaties.
The current government of Javier Milei is committed to drafting and publishing a new National Defense Policy Directive, which will repeal the controversial decree and strengthen Chilean sovereignty over the area .
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