Treaty of Peace and Friendship (Argentina-Chile)
Vatican City
What happened
Argentina and Chile, with Pope John Paul II as mediator through his envoy Cardinal Antonio Samoré. Argentina and Chile had long disputed three small islands, Picton, Lennox and Nueva, at the southern tip of South America. In 1978 the dispute nearly led to war, but Argentina called off a military operation within hours and both countries asked the Pope to mediate. After six years of talks, they signed a treaty at the Vatican giving the islands to Chile and most of the surrounding sea rights to Argentina.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It peacefully settled a dispute that had almost caused a war. It also set up ways to resolve future disagreements between the two countries.
What came next
In a referendum in November 1984, about 82% of Argentine voters supported the agreement. Both countries ratified it in 1985.
Did you know?
Because it was signed in 1984 and ratified in 1985, it is known both as 'the 1984 Treaty' and 'the 1985 Treaty'.
Timeline
- 2 May 1977An arbitration court awards the islands to Chile.
- 22 December 1978Argentina calls off a military operation within hours.
- 9 January 1979Both countries accept papal mediation.
- 25 November 1984Argentina holds a referendum backing the agreement.
- 29 November 1984The treaty is signed in Vatican City.