Quintela Clashes with Orrego Over Mining Project, Demands Border Review

The ongoing dispute between La Rioja and San Juan over provincial boundaries and resource management, particularly concerning the significant Vicuña copper project, has escalated dramatically. Governor Ricardo Quintela's challenge to the 1968 border agreements, which he argues lack democratic legitimacy as they were established during a de facto regime, adds a new layer of complexity to an already contentious issue.

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The conflict is with the company, but the province of San Juan must show generosity. I spoke about this before with (Sergio) Uñac, not with the current governor.

Quintela's administration's decision to suspend activities of the Vicuña project, citing the absence of a proper environmental impact study in La Rioja, has directly impacted operations in San Juan. This move, while framed as a concern for La Rioja's territory and environment, is seen by San Juan Governor Marcelo Orrego as an overreach, with Orrego asserting that San Juan's jurisdiction over the project is "inobjectable" and based on long-standing agreements ratified by the national Congress.

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Evidently, that is an agreement resolved a long time ago, by two governors of the province and a law represented by the National Congress.

The intervention of the national Senate is now crucial, as Quintela has called for a review of the borders. This situation underscores a broader pattern in Argentina where resource-rich provinces and those involved in large-scale mining projects often face scrutiny regarding environmental impact and inter-provincial cooperation. While international coverage might focus on the mining aspect, for Argentinians, this is deeply tied to historical grievances, provincial autonomy, and the equitable distribution of national resources. The debate over borders and resource rights is a recurring theme, reflecting the complex federal structure of the country and the historical power dynamics between provinces and the national government.

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If this policy of oppression, of suffocating the Argentine people, continues, naturally it will not reach December 10. We consider that society will quickly react, sooner rather than later, to modify the policy.