Thank you for your respone 888jamie888- I think we're clear with each other now.
@ephone: Argentina being the second largest country in South America means nothing; I ask this, what are the socia-economic and political benefits for Argentina and the Falklands Islands should the UK relinquish control?
No logical answers spring to my mind. Yes the islands are 8000 miles away from the UK, but they also are 300 miles from Argentina: that isn't exactly a short boat trip!
The Falkland Islanders have lived in prosperity since the invasion (not immediately after the last Argentine soldier left, but in time afterwards). Why would the
current inhabitants of the islands risk Argentine state interference by voting themselves in their control.
Finally, what does Argentina gain from being given the Falklands? What difference to the proverbial man on the streets Buenos Aires?
Russia has held the Kuril Islands for less time than we have held the Falklands- does anyone on this forum that isn't Japanese dispute Russia's sovereignty?