Rogelio Frigerio and Yamandú Orsi have convened to discuss the creation of a green hydrogen plant in Paysandú, aiming to prevent conflicts reminiscent of past diplomatic crises. They highlighted the importance of dialogue, environmental sustainability, and strategic regional projects to foster cooperation between Argentina and Uruguay.
In a recent meeting held in Montevideo, Rogelio Frigerio, the Governor of Entre Ríos, and Yamandú Orsi, the President of Uruguay, addressed the potential establishment of a green hydrogen plant in Paysandú. They underscored the necessity of avoiding conflicts reminiscent of the past diplomatic crisis stemming from the installation of the Botnia pulp mill. Emphasizing the importance of dialogue, Frigerio remarked that the Uruguay River serves as a unifying force between the two nations.
The installation of the HIF Global plant, situated on the eastern bank of the Uruguay River across from Colón, generated concerns regarding its environmental impact and repercussions on local tourism. Frigerio noted the community’s appeals to ensure that such energy developments do not adversely affect tourism, which is vital for the area’s economy. In response, Orsi committed to ongoing discussions with all stakeholders to address these concerns.
Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin further stressed the importance of maintaining cooperation between Argentina and Uruguay to manage projects affecting the Uruguay River. He cautioned against a recurrence of historical blockades, referencing the tensions caused by the Botnia pulp mill. Both governments pledged to ensure that the green hydrogen plant adheres to principles of complementarity, sustainable development, and environmental stewardship.
In addition to the green hydrogen discussions, Frigerio and Orsi expressed their commitment to advancing several strategic regional projects. These include the dredging of the Uruguay River to enhance navigability, the development of a deep-water port in Soriano, and the reinforcement of the waterway, which holds significant implications for trade. The developments are poised to stimulate economic integration and trade across Paraguay, northern Argentina, and the Uruguayan coast.
The collaboration between Argentina and Uruguay highlights a commitment to diplomatic dialogue, with efforts focused on avoiding conflict over green hydrogen projects while promoting environmental sustainability and economic integration. Frigerio’s and Orsi’s proactive stances, along with foreign minister Lubetkin’s emphasis on cooperation, suggest a progressive pathway for regional development and shared prosperity.
Original Source: hydrogen-central.com
