President Vázquez requests that the Argentinian blockade should be discussed at the UNASUR

The blockade between Argentina and Uruguay at the bridge between the cities of Gualeguaychú and Fray Bentos is now almost two years running permanently. The origin of same was due to the construction of the papermill factory Botnia. The population of Gualeguaychú claimed that same would polute the area and make the agriculture products not apt for sale as it would cause several health damages to the piopulation in that area. The factory is now working since almost one year and non of the above could be proved. Strict controls were made by the Uruguayan government and by the University of Buenos Aires. The results showed, that there is no pollution of the air or in the water due to the papermill factory.

President Vázquez requested several times the Argentinian government to clear the bridge from the blockade, but there was no response. During the yearly Convention of the United Nations, the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Uruguay was promised by Argentinian authorities that they would clear the blockade and to dredge the Río Uruguay as to get the support for former Argentinian president Nestor Kirchner to lead the UNASUR, which must be unanimous. As the promise was not held, Uruguay send a statement, that they would not support Nestor Kirchner for the UNASUR leadership. The Argentinian government reacted saying that same was an offense to the Argentinian people.

Next month the yearly Iberoamerican meeting will take place in El Salvador. President Vázquez suggested, that it would be a good opportunity to discuss the matters internationally as same violates several international agreements. He also stated, that Uruguay could change the position if the Argentinian government shows that they are willing to get a solution to this problem.