Identifier
Created
Classification
Origin
06BUENOSAIRES1791
2006-08-09 21:06:00
CONFIDENTIAL
Embassy Buenos Aires
Cable title:  

STORY OF RUSSIAN ARMS SALES OVERBLOWN

Tags:  PARM MARR MASS PREL VZ RS AR 
pdf how-to read a cable
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C O N F I D E N T I A L BUENOS AIRES 001791 

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/09/2016
TAGS: PARM MARR MASS PREL VZ RS AR
SUBJECT: STORY OF RUSSIAN ARMS SALES OVERBLOWN

Classified By: Charge d'affaires Michael Matera for
reasons 1.4(b) and (d)

C O N F I D E N T I A L BUENOS AIRES 001791

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/09/2016
TAGS: PARM MARR MASS PREL VZ RS AR
SUBJECT: STORY OF RUSSIAN ARMS SALES OVERBLOWN

Classified By: Charge d'affaires Michael Matera for
reasons 1.4(b) and (d)


1. (C) On August 9, The Washington Times ran a story
regarding potential Russian arms sales to Argentina (local
daily "La Nacion" ran the story last week). The source for
the WT story, from which the article quotes liberally, is a
standard MOD press release following Minister Garre's
meetings with foreign dignitaries, in this case the Russian
Ambassador to Argentina Yuri Korchagin. The WT article -
based on the MOD's press release - reports the meeting
accurately, but then adds the spice by noting the meeting
(and offer of arms) comes on the tail of Venezuela's recent
arm's deal with Russia, insinuating a possible link. PolOff
spoke on August 9 with MOD Director General for Policy Dr.
Leonardo Hekimian, a good contact for the Embassy. Hekimian
stated there was no "deal" nor serious negotiations. As the
WT article noted, the Minister told Korchagin that Argentina
was not in the market for major arms purchases for a variety
of reasons, including budgetary. Hekimian characterized
Korchagin's overture in the nature of an ambassador drumming
up business for his country's industries. Hekimian noted
that the MOD had recently received similar offers for arms
deals from the Ukrainians and Pakistanis, all politely
refused.


2. (C) Comment: There is little likelihood Argentina will
be making any significant arms purchases in the near term.
Budgetary constraints, relatively good relations with
neighboring countries, and an ongoing, major review of the
Armed Forces' mission and role in Argentina preclude such
considerations.
MATERA