This written declaration commits only those who have signed it.
We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned by the escalating
situation following the Argentine Government’s announcement on Monday
April 16 of its decision to nationalise the YPF Oil Compagny.
We would like to express our disappointment at this decision
which breaks a long history of cordiality and friendship between
Spain, Europe and Argentina.
We view this action as an attack on free enterprise and the
principle of legal certainty representing an arbitrary and discriminatory
action in violation of international law.
We view this act as an unlawful assault on international law
that may weaken its impact in the future for all players in our
globalised economy. This may set a dangerous precedent for legal
certainty, leading to a disregard for international law and the
consequent non-compliance by governments with their international responsibilities.
We call upon Argentina to return to the path of dialogue in
order to resolve this problem through negotiation and diplomatic
means.
We urge all parties involved in the dispute to respect international
law and improve legal certainty internationally.
All States are called upon to protect European and international
standards so as to safeguard the rule of law worldwide.