The 1973 Río De La Plata Treaty: a Milestone in Argentina-uruguay Relations

On February 12, 1974, the Treaty of the Río de la Plata and its Maritime Front came into effect, signed on November 19, 1973, in Montevideo by the presidents Juan María Bordaberry of Uruguay and Juan Domingo Perón of Argentina. This treaty not only marked the end of almost a century of territorial and jurisdictional disputes over the Río de la Plata but also established the foundations for closer binational cooperation in areas such as fishing and navigation.

Since Uruguay's independence in 1828, the Río de la Plata, one of the largest estuaries in the world serving as a natural border between Argentina and Uruguay, had been the subject of numerous disputes over the delimitation of its waters and the use of its resources. These tensions worsened during the 20th century, with differences over issues such as the sovereignty of islands, fishing rights, maritime navigation, and the delimitation of the maritime front.

The signing of the treaty in 1973 was the result of a particular political and diplomatic context. Perón, back in power after 18 years of exile, sought to consolidate the relationship with neighboring countries as part of his foreign policy.

Meanwhile, Bordaberry led Uruguay during a complex period marked by the establishment of a military dictatorship. Both leaders saw in the treaty an opportunity to close a chapter of history plagued by conflicts and open others of cooperation.

Main Aspects of the Treaty

- Delimitation of Boundaries: The treaty clearly established the borders in the Río de la Plata, defining zones of exclusive jurisdiction for each country and a zone of common use.

- Common Fishing Zone: A common fishing area was created beyond the 12 nautical miles from the coastal baselines of both countries, allowing Argentine and Uruguayan vessels to exploit fish resources jointly.

- Administration of the River: The Administrative Commission of the Río de la Plata (CARP) was formed, a binational body responsible for the joint management of the river, including aspects such as navigation, buoying, and environmental protection.

- Works and Navigation: The treaty facilitated cooperation in the construction of works and the regulation of navigation, improving maritime and river connectivity between both countries.

Impact and Legacy

The Treaty of the Río de la Plata not only solved centuries of border disputes but also laid the groundwork for deeper collaboration. The creation of the CARP has been essential for the sustainable management of the river, the conservation of its ecosystem, and the safety of navigation. In economic terms, it allowed for a more rational and equitable exploitation of fishing resources, benefiting local communities and the fishing industry of both countries.