European Commission 'surprised' at Timerman’s denial on YPF letter

The European Commission expressed today its astonishment over Foreign Minister Héctor Timerman remarks regarding a letter sent by the European Union last week.

The commission said today it was “surprised” after the Argentine official denied ever receiving the communication sent by the European Commissioner Karel De Gucht expressing the European concern over the the government's plans to expropriate shares from the Spain-based oil and gas company Repsol.

“The European Union is a bit surprised at Argentina for refusal to acknowledge the letter was received, especially since we have been given the confirmation of arrival from the Ministry,” European Commission Trade spokesman John Clancy indicated today.

He explained the document was delivered “as usual through the diplomatic due process at the Argentine Foreign Ministry on Friday the 20th around noon.”