President Martin Vizcarra affirmed he
According to the Head of State, they agreed to wait for the Energy and Mines Ministry’s review of the document submitted by Arequipa Region Government regarding the
construction permit granted to Southern Peru Copper Corporation.
The process will be supported and expanded so the Ministry can examine and assess it with the purpose of making the most adequate decision.
Likewise, the top official indicated the meeting was a valuable opportunity to listen to one another in order to find a solution.
"Thus, we consider it (the gathering) has been positive. It was an adequate meeting, respectful for all the people who were present," he expressed.
On the other hand, the statesman clarified regional authorities cannot make a decision concerning the strike, as it is the decision of the population.
Furthermore, Arequipa Region Governor Elmer Caceres mentioned the need to approve a new Mining Law, since the current one dates back from 1993.
In this sense, President Vizcarra pointed out his administration also believes some aspects of the law are old-fashioned, adding the Executive Branch will coordinate this effort with the regional governments.
The meeting took place in the city of Arequipa.
Tia Maria project
Executive Branch spokespersons warned that —even though the license has been issued— this does not mean the mining corporation can begin operations. It needs to earn —
through dialogue— a social license first.
For its part, the
mining company committed itself not to start operations before setting up a dialogue space to resolve social concerns.
(END) PBQ/CVC/DTK/MVB