Water fight.

Chile and Peru's long-complicated relationship seems to be worsening. A November law issued by Peru regarding their maritime border has only added fuel to the fire. Peru clearly wants better access to rich fishing grounds, but the move has left Chilean diplomats scratching their heads. The two countries signed agreements in the 1950s outlining the disputed border, but Peru claims the treaties discussed only fishing--not the actual maritime boundaries.

"Imagine the chaos if every country, acting domestically, weakened all of its borders established by treaty."

--Hugo Llano, member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration of the Hague (ANSA)

"I don't want to be a witness to a new War of the Pacific."

--Cecilia de los Heros Grau, great-granddaughter of Peruvian naval hero Admiral Miguel Grau (LUN)

"Our country is guided by reason and international laws."

--William Schmitt, director of Peruvian defense ministry think-tank Centro de Altos Estudios Nacionales (Prensa Popular)

"It's about a border that has been recognized in practice and legally through valid treaties by Chile and by Peru."

--Chilean General Secretary Osvaldo Puccio (Telam-SNI)

"Today interaction, exchange and interdependence between countries is the social and political truth of our time, so we have to understand each other."

--Gilberto Gil, Brazilian Cultural Minister (Libre Acceso)

"We shouldn't side with either of the two countries because it would complicate future hopes for an outlet to the sea."

--Juan Ignacio S/les, Bolivian ex-chancellor (AFP)