Peru: State of emergency declared in 6 provinces

(Baonghean.vn) - On September 29, the Peruvian government declared a state of emergency in six southeastern provinces of the country after four people died during protests against a mining project contracted by a Chinese company.

The Peruvian government said a state of emergency has been declared for 30 days in the provinces of Apurimac, Cotabambas, Grau, Andahuaylas and Chincheros in the Aporimac region, and Chumbivilcas and Espinar in the Cusco region. According to the announcement, police will monitor the situation with the support of the military.

The mining industry plays an essential role in Peru's economic development but has also given rise to many social conflicts.

The clashes reportedly occurred after a meeting of residents protesting the construction of a copper ore processing plant in Las Bambas, a major mining area in Peru. According to residents, they believe the construction of the plant will pollute the water source as well as their culture. The clashes left four people dead and dozens injured.

In an attempt to calm the tensions, Peruvian President Ollanta Humala announced that the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is working on a solution to the protesters’ demands. According to Ollanta, a special commission will be sent to visit the scene.

In 2010, the Peruvian government granted Chinese conglomerate MMG permission to build a mining plant in Las Bambas, Apurimac province. If all goes according to plan, the plant will be operational by early 2016.

In Peru, the mining industry is one of the main activities and plays an essential role in economic development. However, the development of the mining industry has also given rise to many social and environmental conflicts in recent months./.

Chu Thanh

(According to Le Firago)