Bolivia: Government and Workers' Central resume dialogue amid ongoing protests

The Bolivian government and the Central Obrera Boliviana (COB) have reopened dialogue in La Paz, seeking solutions to over a month of protests and road blockades. The demonstrations, which began on May 6, are primarily demanding the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz.

The closed-door meeting includes key government ministers such as the Minister of Government, Marco Antonio Oviedo, and the Minister of Defense, Ernesto Justiniano. The COB delegation is headed by its top leader, miner Mario Argollo. This marks a renewed effort to de-escalate the crisis that has paralyzed parts of the country.

Earlier, the presidency sent a letter to Argollo inviting them to "reinstate the dialogue table," following "agreements reached regarding the proposals" made by the COB. The COB had previously submitted a document outlining demands for "pacifying the country." However, previous talks stalled when Argollo conditioned progress on the release of detained protesters, a matter under legal review by the government.

The conflict, now supported by sectors aligned with former President Evo Morales, has led to severe shortages of food, fuel, and medical oxygen in several cities. Economic losses are estimated at $3 billion, and at least 16 people have died, with 13 attributed to the lack of timely medical care due to the blockades.