Governor Rogelio Frigerio of Argentina and President Yamandú Orsi of Uruguay have met to discuss preventing conflicts regarding a green hydrogen plant in Paysandú. They emphasized the importance of dialogue to address local concerns and committed to cooperative development strategies that will ensure environmental sustainability and bolster regional trade. Both leaders aim to learn from past crises to enhance future collaboration.
In a recent meeting in Montevideo, Governor Rogelio Frigerio of Entre Ríos, Argentina, and President Yamandú Orsi of Uruguay discussed measures to avoid potential conflicts over the construction of a green hydrogen plant in Paysandú. They recognized that while the project has raised concerns, particularly regarding environmental impacts and tourism in the Colón community across the river, it is vital to maintain dialogue. Frigerio stated, “The Uruguay River unites us, it doesn’t separate us,” underscoring the importance of cooperation.
Both leaders agreed that past diplomatic crises, such as those experienced in the early 2000s relating to the Botnia pulp mill, should not be repeated. Emphasizing a necessity for dialogue to prevent escalating tensions, Orsi assured that discussions would involve all stakeholders to address the concerns of local communities. Furthermore, there will be a collaborative effort to ensure the new energy plant does not adversely affect tourism, which is vital to Colón’s economy.
Uruguayan Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin highlighted the significance of maintaining cooperation between Argentina and Uruguay regarding projects impacting the Uruguay River. He remarked, “Let what happened with the bridges never happen again,” referring to past blockades over the Botnia pulp mill conflict. Both governments are committed to developing the green hydrogen plant in a manner that prioritizes environmental sustainability and regional complementarity.
In addition to the hydrogen initiative, Frigerio and Orsi outlined several strategic projects aimed at enhancing regional cooperation, including the dredging of the Uruguay River, developing a deep-water port in Soriano, and strengthening the waterway for regional trade. These initiatives are expected to benefit trade among Paraguay, northern Argentina, and the Uruguayan coast, promoting greater economic integration between the two nations.
The discussions between Governor Rogelio Frigerio of Argentina and President Yamandú Orsi of Uruguay highlight a proactive approach to managing potential conflicts over green hydrogen development. Both leaders underscored the need for continued dialogue to foster cooperation and avoid tensions reminiscent of past crises. The commitment to joint projects, including vital improvements to regional trade infrastructure, is poised to enhance economic integration between Argentina and Uruguay.
Original Source: hydrogen-central.com
