Falkland Islands vote to remain UK territory

PanARMENIAN.Net - The people of the Falkland Islands have voted overwhelmingly in favor of remaining a UK overseas territory, BBC News reported.

Of 1,517 votes cast in the two-day referendum - on a turnout of more than 90% - 1,513 were in favor, while just three votes were against.

It follows pressure from Argentina over its claims to the islands, 31 years after the Falklands War with the UK.

The UK government welcomed the result and urged "all countries" to accept it and "support" the islanders.

There was a turnout of more than 90% from 1,672 British citizens eligible to vote in a population of about 2,900.

UK Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "We have always been clear that we believe in the rights of the Falklands people to determine their own futures and to decide on the path they wish to take. It is only right that, in the 21st Century, these rights are respected. All countries should accept the results of this referendum and support the Falkland islanders as they continue to develop their home and their economy. I wish them every success in doing so."

Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has maintained that the inhabitants' wishes are not relevant in what is a territorial issue.

Most Argentines regard the islands, which they call Las Malvinas, as Argentine and their recovery is enshrined in the national constitution.