In lifting the economic sanctions against Argenstina, President Reagan has taken a step toward mending U.S.-Argentine relations, strained in one of the unhappy sideconsequences of the Falklands War. From April 2, when the South American Country seized the British colony islands. until April 30 when mediation efforts failed, fthe United States steered a neutral course between two old friends. But with the collapse of negotiations, the U.S.. ended its role as neutral mediator, blamed Argentina for the diplomatic breakdown, openly sided with Britain, and imposed the economic sanctions. It is hoped the President’s action in lifting the curbs will open the way to improved relations. not only in Argentina but with other Latin Americans offended by the American position. President Reagan’s action will allow Argentina to receive new ExportImport Bank credits and guarantees and new Commodity Credit Corp. guarantees which had been banned in the Falklands crisis. However, the President left intact a ban on deliveries of military equipment and spare parts that Argentina had contracted to receive from this country. There was no indication what the U.S. will require before it resumes arms shipments. Reagan sounded a harmonious note when he said: “Now is the time for all parties involved in the Falklands dispute to put the past behind us and work for friendship and cooperation.” l The Chief Executi e ad another opportunity u ‘ng the week to polish .S. friendships with a nei hbpr to the south when onduran President Ro rto Suazo Cordova visited im in Washington. He assured Suazo tat America will help H nduras to solve econo ‘c problems and defend its f against terrorism and su version. Suazo made his own pledge: That Honduras would stand with the U.S. “in the fight for preserving democracy in Latin America.” The gesture toward Argentina and the Honduran good-will pledges are two examples of the positive steps needed in the Americas to achieve hemispheric unity and counter the efforts of subversive elements.