The island of **Annobón**, located in the [Gulf of Guinea](https://noticiasambientales.com/animales/en-africa-occidental-luchan-por-salvar-al-cocodrilo-enano-de-la-extincion/), has formalized its request to become an **associated state of Argentina**, in an unprecedented move that could redefine the country’s foreign policy.
Annobon’s Prime Minister, Orlando Cartagena Lagar, presented the proposal this week in **Buenos Aires**, highlighting a **forgotten historical connection** with the **Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata**.
In 1778, the Treaty of **El Pardo** transferred the island to **Spain**, and later it became part of **Equatorial Guinea**, which gained independence in 1968.
In 2022, Annobón **declared its independence**, although it has not been internationally recognized.
Social and Economic Challenges in Annobón
The island, with an area of **17 km²**, faces **serious economic difficulties**, including:
– [Dependence on artisanal fishing](https://noticiasambientales.com/innovacion/luces-led-en-redes-de-pesca-una-solucion-innovadora-en-peru-para-proteger-a-las-tortugas-marinas/) as a source of income.
– High rate of youth unemployment, leading to youth migration.
– Lack of essential resources, limiting its autonomy and development.
*”Save us from the current situation,”* stated **Cartagena Lagar**, justifying the request for **association with Argentina**.
A Possible Associated State in Africa
If the integration were to materialize, Argentina would become a **tricontinental nation**, with a presence in:
– South America.
– Antarctica.
– Africa, through Annobón.
Although for now it is a **symbolic petition**, the issue has sparked **debate on social media and in the media**.
Population, Culture, and Language
According to the **2015 census**, Annobón has **5,232 inhabitants**, descendants of:
– **Africans brought from Angola** by the Portuguese in the 15th century.
– **Influence of European settlers**, leading to an ethnic group with its own cultural identity.
The official language is **Spanish**, although **Annobonese** is also spoken, a **creole language based on Portuguese**.
Geopolitical Implications and Doubts
Annobón’s request could have **international repercussions**, including:
– Strengthening Argentina’s presence in the Atlantic.
– Generating diplomatic tensions with Equatorial Guinea and other African nations.
– Impacting support for Argentina’s sovereignty over the Falkland Islands in the UN.
So far, **Argentina has not issued an official response**, although the Annobonese delegation met with **legislators and human rights defenders** in Buenos Aires, indicating that the proposal is under evaluation.
