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U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman Press Statement

Press Statement by James P. Rubin, Spokesman
May 19, 1999

U.S.-Argentina Civil Aviation Talks Postponed

We are disappointed that the Argentine Government has postponed negotiations on an Open Skies aviation agreement. After more than one year of negotiations, the two sides had narrowed their differences and were close to resolving remaining issues.

The current air services agreement with Argentina is one of the most restrictive the United States has with any country. This raises the costs and hinders the development of trade between the United States and Argentina.

Without an Open Skies agreement, it is highly unlikely that the U.S. Department of Transportation would approve a codesharing arrangement between Argentina's principal flag carrier, Aerolineas Argentinas, and American Airlines, a part owner of Aerolineas Argentinas.

We encourage the Government of Argentina to resume negotiations and conclude an agreement as soon as possible.

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