President Jorge Videla of Argentina has told his countrymen his military government would implement plans to lead Argentina back to a democratic system of government. But as yet, there was no time-table for elections. The President was speaking in a nation-wide broadcast on Wednesday (29 March), to mark the second anniversary of the armed forces' seizure of power.

SYNOPSIS: The Argentines may still have to wait some time, though, before an elected government rules over the country once again. The military have held power off and on for almost 18 years.

General Videla said the military plans would require a "long period of transition towards a modern, pluralistic and stable democracy". The general, who led the coup that ousted the government of Senora Maria Estela Peron in March, 1976, said the military plans would be implemented by stages. They would include a dialogue with al;l representative private sectors, aimed at national unity.

He said the plans also included the replacement of military officers by civilians in top government posts and the creation of conditions to allow a limited number of political parties.

One of the first laws to be re-drafted by the military government when it took over was the Foreign Investments Law. It was aimed at reversing the previous government's hostile attitude to foreign investors. These investors are waiting in the wings now as Argentina's business climate begins to improve.

The government says the country's economy is growing, with more goods for people to buy, and which they can afford. Two years under General Videla have seen an improvement in the standard of living.

The government is committed to full employment, are says foreign investment would bring in the necessary finance as well as the technology and know-how which Argentina needs.

The ruling Junta says civilians will play an increasingly important part in running the country. It wants to restore a representative, republican and federal democracy. However, General Videla is expected to stay on as president when the three-man Junta steps down.