In 2012, Argentina's political situation was stable. The opposition forces were relatively weak and unable to form a strong anti-government alliance. The battle between the government and Argentina's private media group Clarín has aroused public concern worldwide. Affected by external economic weakness, Argentina's economic growth slowed down. The government strengthened foreign exchange control and its intervention in the economy. Argentina's largest oil company YPF was nationalized. The resentful emotions in society rose and strikes and protests happened frequently. The Malvinas Islands dispute was still an important diplomatic issue. The trade friction and tension caused by nationalization were also of great concern. <<