Bolivian Government and Union Reach Agreement After More Than Six Weeks of Crisis

The Bolivian government and the country's largest labor confederation, the Central Obrera Boliviana (COB), have signed an agreement to pacify the nation after more than six weeks of disruptive union protests. The demonstrations, which began in early May, included a nationwide labor strike and widespread road blockades, fueled by discontent over the severe economic crisis and demands for President Rodrigo Paz's resignation. The COB's leader, Mario Argollo, announced on Friday evening that all pressure measures would be lifted nationwide, citing the government's commitment to immediately fulfill the terms of the signed accord. President Paz welcomed the agreement, emphasizing that "dialogue is stronger than force itself." He added, "The strongest do not survive, but those who know how to adapt." Protests saw participation from peasants, indigenous communities, factory workers, and miners, all calling for Paz's ouster. Dialogue tables were established last week between union leaders and government ministers to negotiate the terms of the agreement. Road blockades, which at their peak affected over a century's worth of routes, have reportedly decreased by half, with the government expecting further reductions. However, not all groups have agreed to cease their actions. Indigenous and farmer unions, including the Túpac Katari union from the Bolivian Andes and coca growers from Chapare, the stronghold of former President Evo Morales, have declared their intention to maintain pressure on the government.

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from this moment on, the pressure measures are being lifted nationwide.