British official: The Falkland Islands are British and have the right to develop their natural resources

London, 18 Sep (KUNA) -- A British official confirmed on Friday that the Falkland Islands are British and have the right to develop their natural resources in the manner they deem appropriate.

In a statement to Parliament, Usha Kumaran, Under-Secretary of State for Overseas Territories at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, stated, "This is an integral part of their right to self-determination."

Kumaran added, "In recent weeks, Argentina has continued to threaten companies and individuals who supply goods and services, directly or indirectly, to the Falkland Islands, including in the hydrocarbons sector."

She noted that the United Kingdom and its diplomatic network stand firmly with the companies and individuals in the Falkland Islands, explaining, "This is not the first time the Argentine government has issued economic threats against the islanders, yet the Falkland Islands' economy continues to thrive."

She continued, "The United Kingdom stands shoulder to shoulder with the international community and considers any attempt to politicize international mechanisms against individuals for their commercial dealings with the Falkland Islands to be an illegitimate practice."

She added, "These allegations against companies and individuals are unacceptable and lack any legal justification, at a time when there are enormous opportunities for businesses in the Falkland Islands. We will work tirelessly with the Islands' government to ensure the protection of their aspirations and interests."

Argentina recently filed new legal complaints against oil companies conducting exploration operations in the Falkland Islands, which the United Kingdom considers a British Overseas Territory.

(END) A.S.H. / R.J.